The Bedload Movement in the Changjiang Estuary

- Sandwaves in the Changjiang estuary were measured with a shallow sediment profiler and an echosounder from 1978 to 1988. The data, together with grain size and bedform of sediment indicates that the bedload movement by rolling and saltation is of great significance to sediment transport and is the principal factor responsible for sandwave and sandbody development in the estuary. The sandwaves were found well-developed, which is related to the tidal range and the velocity of ebb current. However, the further growth is restricted by strong flood current prevailing in the estuary. Because of the significant bedload, the sandbodies shift obviously and frequently, and sometimes the exchange of position occurs between the sandbodies and tidal channels. As a result, ships are regularly forced to change their navigation course.

The Bedload Movement in the Changjiang Estuary

- Sandwaves in the Changjiang estuary were measured with a shallow sediment profiler and an echosounder from 1978 to 1988. The data, together with grain size and bedform of sediment indicates that the bedload movement by rolling and saltation is of great significance to sediment transport and is the principal factor responsible for sandwave and sandbody development in the estuary. The sandwaves were found well-developed, which is related to the tidal range and the velocity of ebb current. However, the further growth is restricted by strong flood current prevailing in the estuary. Because of the significant bedload, the sandbodies shift obviously and frequently, and sometimes the exchange of position occurs between the sandbodies and tidal channels. As a result, ships are regularly forced to change their navigation course.