Sedimentary transport in coastal bays: Case study of Vitória and Espírito Santo Bays - ES - brazil

Abstract

Coastal sediment dynamics is strongly influenced by distinct agents such as waves, currents, tides and wind. Sediment transport pattern is associated to the prevailing forcing mechanisms which will be typical for each study area. This investigation has collected and analyzed in situ hydrodynamics data (using an ADP - Nortek AS Aquadopp (2 MHz)) at two distinct sites along the Vitoria coastal area. Results have shown a significant difference in hydrodynamics and associated induced sediment transport patterns. Espírito Santo Bay showed a quite complex circulation pattern associated to the influence of cold front systems, being dominated by storm waves that resuspend sediments that are swept away by the combined action of currents and waves. Vitoria Bay, on the contrary, is dominated by tidal currents, with a strong ebb-dominated asymmetry. The results have shown that net transport direction is towards the mouth of the bay, indicating sediment export within this system. © 2012 Sociedade Brasileira de Geofísica.