A nonlinear viscoelastic model for bed mud transport due to waves and currents

In estuaries and coasts, mud transport due to waves and tidal currents has an important influence on the shoaling control of harbours and waterways and pollutant dispersion. Based on the investigation of rheologic behaviour, a nonlinear viscoelastic model is proposed. A calculating method for bed mud transport velocity is established, in which the influence of irregular character of waves is considered. Comparison of calculated results with the flume experimental results shows a rough agreement.