Thermal pollution in rivers—modelling of the spread of thermal plumes

Abstract

Modeling framework for stream temperature, especially after introducing substantial amount of heat pollution, is presented in this chapter. An overview of the mathematics and solution techniques suited for heat transfer quantification is given and the models presented range from 3D aimed at short distances towards 1D approach allowing for modeling of heat transfer over long distances. A special attention has been paid to the depth averaged two-dimensional models which are particularly useful when the fate of heat pollution such as the heat discharged from a steam power station is considered. The processes of exchange between the river water and river surrounding are also discussed. Examples of computational solutions are provided and discussed as well.