Different approaches for particle representation in plastic debris transport models

Abstract

Knowledge of plastic debris transport mechanism in open waters and its interaction with hydraulic structures (i.e. accumulation and clogging) is of paramount importance for effective waste-removal strategies and sustainable management of plastic debris. To the author’s best knowledge, current models for prediction of plastic debris transport assume a highly simplified geometry, while making use of parameterization of the physical processes, therefore pointing out the need for further research. Herein, the effect of shape and buoyancy on the motion of a single particle was studied employing point-particle approach while the background flow is solved using RANS approach. It is observed that the particles with the same amount of plastic mass but different shape and density showed substantially different behaviors, resulting in different trajectories. Since parametrization and point-particle approach were used, even if the particle size is larger than the mesh size, these preliminary results showed that further validation is required for prediction of accurate trajectory by means of resolved-particle approach.