This research seeks to increase understanding of hydrodynamic processes influencing the salinity intrusion and sediment transport patterns by simulating the complex flows in Delaware Estuary. For this purpose, a three-dimensional numerical model is developed for the tidal portion of the Delaware Estuary using the UnTRIM hydrodynamic kernel. The model extends from Trenton, NJ south past the inlet at Cape May, NJ and incorporates a large portion of the continental shelf.The simulation efforts are focused on summer 2003. A variable, harmonically decomposed, water level boundary condition of three diurnal (K1, Q1, O1) and four semidiurnal (K2, S2, N2, M2) components are used to regenerate the observed tidal signals in the bay. The effect of forcing by the Chesapeake Bay through the Chesapeake-Delaware canal is also modeled. The major forcings such as inflow and wind is used to better reproduce the observed characteristics.Various turbulence closure models are compared for use in Delaware Estuary to best represent the salinity intrusion patterns. In particular, seven different turbulence closures, five of which are two-equation closure models, are used for comparison. Four of these models are implemented in the UnTRIM hydrodynamic code using Generic Length Scale (GLS) approach that mimics the models through its parameter combinations. The original Yamada Mellor level 2.5 code is used as the fifth one.The water levels are compared with data available from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration observation stations. Harmonic analysis to observations and simulations are performed. All turbulence models perform similar in performance representing the tidal conditions.Salinity time series data is available at Ship John Shoal Light Station for the 62 day simulation period. In addition to the time series data, a survey performed by University of Delaware along the main shipping channel in June 2003 is available. Simulation with different turbulence closures yielded substantially different results. Among the seven closures compared, the k −ε parameterization of GLS is found to best represent the observed salinity characteristics.The k −ε model is used in the sediment transport modeling. The model results are compared to the available sediment data from a survey performed in spring 2003. The location of turbidity maximum is accurately identified by k −ε model.Ph.D., Civil, Architectural & Environmental Engineering -- Drexel University, 200
