Work

Analysis of the sediment deposition characteristics in the Three Gorges Reservoir and its influence factors

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Affected by climatic factors and human activities, the conditions of the sediment deposition of the Three Gorges Reservoir(TGR) in the upper Yangtze River have undergone significant changes, the understandings of the sedimentation in TGR and its factors remain unclear. In this paper, the framework for sediment deposition in TGR from 2003 to 2017 is analyzed based on field data, its influence factors are discussed, and the empirical equations governing the relationships are presented. The results show that the sedimentation pattern of the TGR is discontinuous and that the perennial backwater area is the key sedimentation area, while the reaches of Xiangxizhen, Wushan, Fengjie, Wanxian, Huanghuacheng, Lanzhuba, and Tunaozi are the main deposition points in the reservoir. These deposition points include meandering and branching channels with the same characteristics of a wide section. Sediment deposition in the TGR is affected by the incoming water and sediment, the operation rule of the reservoir, and by the characteristics of its reaches. Compared with the factors influencing the total sediment retention ratio of the reservoir, local reach conditions are also the main factors influencing the sediment retention ratio of the reaches. The sediment retention ratio can be a good indicator that reflects sedimentation in the TGR; the calculated sediment retention ratio agrees well with field observations. With the continuous construction and operation of the main and tributary reservoirs in the upper Yangtze River, the existing sedimentation framework of the TGR will persist for many years.

Source: Environmental Earth Sciences

DOI: 10.1007/s12665-024-11762-4

Authors: Deng Jinyun, Xu Fang, Ma Chenyu, Yang Chunrui, Zhao Zhanchao, Yue Hongyan

Institutions: Wuhan University, Chongqing Jiaotong University, Ministry of Water Resources of the People's Republic of China, Changjiang River Scientific Research Institute

Language: English

Topic: Hydrology and Sediment Transport Processes

Subfield: Ecology

Field: Environmental Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Clean water and sanitation

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,090