Hydrodynamic Dispersion of Volatile Contaminant in an Open Channel Flow Using a Fitted Operator Approach

This research work focuses on hydrodynamics and its role in free surface channel flow, specifically in relation to the transport of volatile contaminants. In these scenarios, the convection-diffusion equation is commonly employed to model the dispersion of these contaminants. Specifically, we investigate the ongoing release of tracer particles from a point source situated at an elevated position and subsequently analyze the emission of volatile contaminants from the exposed surface. Simple examples of open channel flow include rivers and canals, where the convection-diffusion problem is mainly influenced by convection. A special numerical method is employed to solve the concentration equation. This scheme is based on a fitted operator approach on a uniform mesh over the channel. The observation indicates that the concentration of contaminants decreases below the injection point as more solute particles are transported to the free surface through the process of volatilization. Furthermore, concentrations increase in both the longitudinal and transverse directions as the parameter for volatile contamination intensifies. The results of this research may have significant implications for managing the spread of air pollution originating from various types of water bodies. This knowledge can contribute to more effective pollution control measures and protect the health and well-being of communities near water bodies.