WAMSI 2 - Dredging Node - Project 2.1 - Generation and release of sediments by hydraulic dredging: a review

This project undertook a literature review on particle generation when soil or rock material is subjected to dredging processes, the introduction of the particles into the water column (dredge-induced resuspension) and the early stages of dredge plume development. Knowledge in these areas is required to specify suspended sediment source terms for input to dredge plume prediction models that are used in environmental impact assessment of dredging proposals. The report focuses on the two types of hydraulic dredgers that are most commonly employed in major dredging projects in Australia, namely the trailing suction hopper dredger (TSHD) and the cutter suction dredger (CSD). The report responds to Task 2.1 of the WAMSI Dredging Science Node Science Plan (Masini et al. 2011).

This report presents a review of available knowledge on the generation/development of sediment particle size characteristics by dredging processes, and the mass release rates (resuspension rates) from dredging activities. This report responds to Task 2.1 of the WAMSI Dredging Science Node Science Plan (Masini et al. 2011).