Numerical investigation of particle velocity distributions in aeolian sand transport

Direct numerical simulations of aeolian sand ripples.

Aeolian sand beds exhibit regular patterns of ripples resulting from the interaction between topography and sediment transport. Their characteristics have been so far related to reptation transport caused by the impacts on the ground of grains entrained by the wind into saltation. By means of direct numerical simulations of grains interacting with a wind flow, we show that the instability turns...

Periodic trajectories in Aeolian sand transport

Laboratory Simulation of Aeolian Sand Transport and

This paper discusses the possibilities of laboratory simulation of large-scale flow around dunes, both with and without saltation, and the study of the physics of the small-scale particle motion occurring on a sand surface composed of like-moveable particles. Physics of the atmospheric boundary layer are presented in the context of laboratory applications. The governing equations of fluid and/o...

Aeolian sand transport with collisional suspension

Aeolian transport is an important mechanism for the transport of sand on Earth and on Mars. Dust and sand storms are common occurrences on Mars and windblown sand is responsible for many of the observed surface features, such as dune fields. A better understanding of Aeolian transport could also lead to improvements in pneumatic conveying of materials to be mined for life support on the surface...

Technical Communication Horizontalwater Trap Formeasurement of Aeolian Sand Transport

A new type of horizontal trap was developed for measuring the aeolian sand transport rate on a flat surface. The trap consists of an adjustable frame that is embedded level with the sand surface, into which a plastic liner is installed and filled with water to capture the blown sand. The water trap has high efficiency and does not disturb the wind field or induce upwind scour. Deployment on Pad...