This module will enable you to develop an appreciation of the processes of sediment transport and their application to relevant engineering problems.  It will also allow you to develop the ability to design stable channels using the concept of the threshold of motion.  

This module will allow you to understand the mechanisms by which sediment particles are transported along the bed and in suspension, and understand the context of well-regarded formulae for predicting sediment discharge in different river types. 

• LO1: Systematic understanding of the key principles of sediment motion. 

• LO2: Derive approaches to the threshold of motion.  

• LO3: Comprehend the key principles of bed and total load formulae. 

• LO4: Demonstrate critical awareness of sedimentation and erosion problems 

The module will be delivered through face-to-face teaching and learning material, guided study, and on-campus classes (tutorials).  

The module is divided into two parts. The first part begins at the general level of sedimentation and erosion problems in river systems. The second part deals with the mechanisms of transport, and introduces well-recognised sediment transport formulae, and methods for measuring sediment load.  The module is designed with the focus of learning primarily in student preparation and participation in weekly tutorials. 

You will develop your subject-specific knowledge in developing your independent and critical thinking skills. You will need to:  

• To identify, define and analyse complex issues and ideas.  

• To demonstrate intellectual curiosity. 

• To develop an iterative design path with alternative designs at appropriate stages. 

• To be environmentally aware and mindful of the need to use green and hybrid approaches for engineering problems.  

This module is assessed by written examination (LO 1-4).  Formative feedback is provided via tutorials. 

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE: 

There is a potential for re-assessment in this module which may result in a 100% written assessment during the August Resit period. 

Opportunities for re-assessment is only permitted provided you have not failed more credit than in the resit rule adopted by your programme.  If the amount of credit you have failed is more than permitted by the relevant resit rule, you may be permitted to repeat study if you are within the threshold set for the Repeat rule adopted by your programme.  You will be notified of your eligibility to resit/repeat any modules after the Examining Board in the Summer period. 

All resit assessments will be held in the Resit Examination period, prior to the start of the following academic session. 

• Properties of Water and Sediments. 

• Initiation of Particle Motion. 

• Geometry of Fluvial Channels including large-scale features and bed features. 

• Transport Mechanisms, bed load and suspended sediment transport. 

• Bed load and Total load transport equations. 

• Measurement Techniques used for bed load and suspended load determination. 

• Riverine sediment transport. 

• An introduction to cohesive sediments and estuarine sedimentation.