Simultaneous study of sediment concentration and fluid velocity in an ice-covered channel

Understanding sediment transport in turbulent flow within ice-covered channels requires simultaneous analysis of the time-averaged streamwise fluid velocity and suspended sediment concentration, as particle–turbulence interactions create a strong interdependence between the two. Higher sediment concentrations increase the fluid density, which in turn leads to flow stratification. Building on previous studies, this research presents a model that simultaneously captures velocity and concentration while incorporating the effects of stratification. To solve the model, a semi-analytical approach based on Riccati’s equation is adopted and validated against a numerical solution obtained through Runge–Kutta (R–K) method, demonstrating strong agreement across the domain. The influence of stratification on eddy viscosity is analyzed, revealing a reduction in turbulent mixing, an increase in velocity shear and a decrease in sediment concentration. Experimental datasets from previous studies are used to compare model predictions, showing good alignment with measured sediment concentration and velocity profiles. The effects of channel bed and ice cover roughness are also examined. Increased ice roughness is found to reduce sediment concentration, shift the position of maximum velocity towards the smoother surface and alter the shear stress distribution. These findings enhance the understanding of sediment transport dynamics in ice-covered environments and provide a foundation for improved predictive modeling.