Consistent unconfined contaminated disposal facilities dike tidal flow and transport model

A two-dimensional time dependent coupled free-boundary numerical model for tidally-induced flow and transport through the dike of a confined disposal facility (CDF) for contaminated sediments is presented in this paper. The model simulations demonstrate the major effect that tidal fluctuations have on the dynamics of the discharge flux. Sensitivity analyses demonstrate that tidal fluctuation hastens the rate of plume migration near the exit face because of the relatively high advective and dispersive fluxes induced by tides. With or without tides, the rate of contaminant migration increases with higher CDF area hydraulic gradient.