Temporal observations of interfacial layer between fluids of different density

The entrapped wedge is a specific type of stratified flow problem that is f ound in estuaries when a barrage is used to control water levels. To avoid problems with water quality, it is essential that any wedge be removed. The sensible mechanism by which this should occur is via the momentum of the f reshwater flow. To investigate this, a laboratory investigation of the eros ion of an entrapped saline wedge caused by a buoyant overflow has been unde rtaken. The shear dow has been found to induce mixing at the interface betw een the two fluids, and a mixed layer results. The characteristics of the l ayer have been found to change with time with two different mechanisms bein g identified. The behavior of the layer depends on the test conditions, in that certain combinations of velocity, depth, and density difference yield different mechanisms of erosion. The temporal behavior of the interfacial l ayer with various freshwater velocities and depths and density differences are presented.