Journal Description
Water
Water
is a peer-reviewed, open access journal on water science and technology, including the ecology and management of water resources, and is published semimonthly online by MDPI. Water collaborates with the International Conference on Flood Management (ICFM) and Stockholm International Water Institute (SIWI). In addition, the American Institute of Hydrology (AIH), The Polish Limnological Society (PLS) and Japanese Society of Physical Hydrology (JSPH) are affiliated with Water and their members receive a discount on the article processing charges.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within Scopus, SCIE (Web of Science), Ei Compendex, GEOBASE, GeoRef, PubAg, AGRIS, CAPlus / SciFinder, Inspec, and other databases.
- Journal Rank: JCR - Q2 (Water Resources) / CiteScore - Q1 (Geography, Planning and Development)
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 16.5 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 2.9 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: reviewers who provide timely, thorough peer-review reports receive vouchers entitling them to a discount on the APC of their next publication in any MDPI journal, in appreciation of the work done.
- Companion journals for Water include: GeoHazards and Hydrobiology.
Impact Factor:
3.4 (2022);
5-Year Impact Factor:
3.5 (2022)
Latest Articles
Gallium Isotope Effect of Ga-Si Complex Solutions in Water: Theoretical Study Based on Density Functional Theory
Water 2024, 16(12), 1680; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121680 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
A Ga isotope is a new proxy for different geochemical processes such as a weathering process, solution process, etc. Si (Si(OH)4) is ubiquitous in natural water bodies. However, studies on the Ga isotope effect about a Ga3+ aqueous solution reacting
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A Ga isotope is a new proxy for different geochemical processes such as a weathering process, solution process, etc. Si (Si(OH)4) is ubiquitous in natural water bodies. However, studies on the Ga isotope effect about a Ga3+ aqueous solution reacting with Si (Si(OH)4) are lacking. In this study, the Ga isotope effect of this process will be studied using a theoretical calculation method based on first principles. The results show that the heavy Ga (71Ga) isotope enrichment ability of different Ga-Si complex solutions is different. The 1000lnβ (‰) sequence of different Ga-Si complex solutions is (OH)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 ≈ (OH)3(H2O)2GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 > (OH)2(H2O)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 > (H2O)5GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 > (OH)(H2O)4GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30. The results show that there are two different reaction mechanisms when a Ga3+ aqueous solution reacts with Si-bearing (Si(OH)4) water; that is, six-coordination Ga-Si complexes and four-coordination Ga-Si complexes are formed at low pH (acidic) and high pH (alkaline), respectively. Compared with a Ga-Si complex aqueous solution under acidic conditions, Ga-Si aqueous solutions under alkaline conditions preferentially enriched the heavy Ga isotope (71Ga). The Ga isotope fractionation factors (α) between Ga-Si complex solutions and Ga3+-bearing aqueous solutions are all negative, which indicates that light Ga (69Ga) isotopes preferentially enter the structure of Ga-Si complexes during the formation of Ga-Si complex solutions. At 50 °C, the Ga isotope fractionation factors (1000lnα) of five systems ((H2O)5GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(H2O)6]3+(aq), (OH)(H2O)4GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(H2O)6]3+(aq), (OH)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(OH)3](aq), (OH)3(H2O)2GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(OH)3](aq), and (OH)2(H2O)3GaOSi(OH)3.(H2O)30 vs. [Ga(OH)3](aq)) involved in this study are −0.12, −0.22, −0.07, −0.09, and −0.16 (‰), respectively. Excitedly, Si can affect the enrichment ability of the heavy Ga isotope (71Ga) in Ga-bearing complex aqueous solutions. This means that when Si is present in aqueous solutions, the enrichment capacity of the heavy Ga isotope (71Ga) of aqueous solutions will be effectively reduced. Ga in sediments is mainly derived from soluble Ga in the form of adsorbed (Fe, Mn) oxides/hydroxides, and the Ga isotope composition in sediments is heavier than that in basalt. The formation process of Ga-Si complex aqueous solutions influences the Ga isotope fractionation effect and also contributes to the composition of Ga isotopes in sediments. These key Ga isotope fractionation parameters obtained in this study will provide theoretical support for better explaining the reaction mechanism of Ga3+ complexes and Si-bearing (Si(OH)4) water bodies in solution processes and Ga isotope geochemical cycles.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Isotope Geochemistry of Groundwater: Latest Advances and Prospects)
Open AccessArticle
Investigating Algal Sensor Utilization Methods for Three-Dimensional Algal Control Technology Evaluation
by
Yeon-Jeong Park, Hye-Suk Yi, Seok-Jea Youn, Seung-Jae Lee, Deok-Hyeon Jin, Hee-Suk Lee and Han-Soon Kim
Water 2024, 16(12), 1679; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121679 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
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There are physical, chemical, and biological methods to control algae, and their efficiency requires evaluation. In the field, monitoring and evaluating the overall algal concentration is challenging due to factors such as the flow rate, inhomogeneous distribution of algae in the water body,
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There are physical, chemical, and biological methods to control algae, and their efficiency requires evaluation. In the field, monitoring and evaluating the overall algal concentration is challenging due to factors such as the flow rate, inhomogeneous distribution of algae in the water body, and limitations in the number of samples for microscopic analysis. In this study, we analyzed total and cyanobacterial chlorophyll a (Chl-a) using a FluoroProbe sensor and microscopic data collected from March to November 2019. The Pearson correlation coefficient of log(x + 1) values revealed a significant positive correlation between four harmful cyanobacteria and cyanobacterial Chl-a (r = 0.618, p < 0.01). Furthermore, we explored the potential of evaluating the efficiency of algal control using sensors by acquiring three-dimensional, spatially continuous data for an algal fence, a physical algae control technology installed at the Daecheong Dam in 2021. The results confirmed that sensors can effectively evaluate algal control technology. This study demonstrates the effectiveness of using sensors to assess the efficiency of physical algal control.
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Open AccessArticle
Hydroxyl Radical-Based Advanced Oxidation Processes of Red Reactive Dyes by Ultrafine Bubbles Method
by
Dedeh Rosmaniar Sofia, Eko Sulistio Hanam, Sunardi Sunardi, Dadan Sumiarsa and I Made Joni
Water 2024, 16(12), 1678; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121678 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The breakdown of dyes, which are environmentally hazardous substances and notoriously difficult to degrade, presents the main treatment challenge for wastewater from textile industries. Most advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for dye degradation usually use costly decolorizing agents, whose residue from Wastewater Treatment Plants
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The breakdown of dyes, which are environmentally hazardous substances and notoriously difficult to degrade, presents the main treatment challenge for wastewater from textile industries. Most advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) for dye degradation usually use costly decolorizing agents, whose residue from Wastewater Treatment Plants may be hazardous to the environment. The present study aimed to apply ultrafine bubbles (UFBs) for water AOPs to degrade textile dyes. Our most recent innovation, ultrafine bubbles, enables the production of reactive oxygen species recently introduced as oxidants in AOPs. First, the disc diffuser was optimized by introducing various flow rates of 1–5 L Per Minute (LPM) to generate UFBs with unique characteristics observed from Zeta Potential, pH, Dissolved Oxygen (DO), and Oxidation–Reduction Potential (ORP). The air UFBs using a disc diffuser with 3 LPM were selected to degrade the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution (1000 Pt-Co). The treatment was optimized on the coagulant dosage (0.25, 0.5, 0.75, and 1 ppm) and bubbling times (0–120 min). As a result, the UFBs were successful in degrading the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution, resulting in a 45% reduction in Pt-Co color scale with a bubbling time of only 120 min and minimal coagulant dosage (0.5 ppm) compared to the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution treatment commonly using a coagulant dosage of 1.5 ppm without UFBs. Based on FTIR, XRF, and PL analysis, we propose the AOP mechanism of hydroxyl radicals for the Navacron Ruby S-3B dye solution. It is emphasized that UFB water AOPs (UFBs–WAOPs) represent a promising alternative technology for treating textile wastewater without chemicals or decolorizing agents. Thus, the UFBs-WAOPs are economical and environmentally benign textile wastewater treatment methods.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
Open AccessArticle
Hydraulic Travel Time Diagnosis Using Recovery Data from Short-Term Pumping Tests for Rapid Aquifer Characterization: A Numerical Study with Monte-Carlo Simulations
by
Junjie Qi, Rui Hu, Linwei Hu, Quan Liu, Xiaolan Hou and Yang Song
Water 2024, 16(12), 1677; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121677 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the realm of groundwater science, characterization of heterogeneous aquifers is pivotal for resolving diverse groundwater resource and engineering-related problems that require the detailed spatial distribution of hydraulic parameters. As research progresses, one hydraulic tomographical method, which is based on hydraulic travel time
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In the realm of groundwater science, characterization of heterogeneous aquifers is pivotal for resolving diverse groundwater resource and engineering-related problems that require the detailed spatial distribution of hydraulic parameters. As research progresses, one hydraulic tomographical method, which is based on hydraulic travel time inversion, emerges as a promising and rapid method due to its robust and efficient calculation. In the field, the acquisition of hydraulic excitation and head observation data required for inversion is less time-consuming. Data collection from a single hydraulic test (such as a pumping test) typically takes only a few minutes or even a few tens of seconds. However, the field application of this method faces challenges. Hydraulic travel time is typically generated in the early stages of hydrogeological tests (e.g., early drawdown of a pumping test), yet accurate data may not be readily available because of the noise signals from test equipment, which can contaminate travel time signals, leading to inaccurate inversion results. A potential solution lies in utilizing the smooth head observation during the recovery period after the pump is turned off, which yields more accurate travel times for inversion calculations. In this paper, the mathematical development suggests that the travel time of the recovery phase aligns with that of the pumping phase when pumping reaches a steady or quasi-steady state. Subsequently, by employing Monte-Carlo simulations, 1200 realizations of two-dimensional heterogeneous confined aquifer models were generated for simulating pumping tests with different pumping durations. The calculated head data were then utilized to compute the travel time derived from drawdown data (t) and recovery data (t′), respectively. Comparisons showed that t is equal to t′ when drawdown reaches a steady or quasi-steady state. Conversely, when the pump is turned off before reaching a quasi-steady state, t differs from t′. However, results also indicate the fact that a decent hydraulic travel time diagnosis can be obtained, especially for the cases when travel times are smaller than 15 s. Given the statistical results of Monte-Carlo simulations, as well as experience during pumping tests in the field with different scenarios, using the recovery data from 60 s of pumping duration, or extended pumping durations of 100 s or 200 s as a more conservative alternative, can replace the aquifer characterization based on drawdown data. The new inversion strategy not only has less data uncertainty and equivalent inversion accuracy, but also can greatly enhance the repeatability of field tests and reduce the environmental impact of long-term pumping tests.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Experimental and Numerical Simulation of Groundwater Flow and Solute Transport)
Open AccessArticle
Knowledge Management Model for Urban Flood Emergency Response Based on Multimodal Knowledge Graphs
by
Mengkun Li, Chen Yuan, Kejin Li, Minzhong Gao, Yuan Zhang and Huiying Lv
Water 2024, 16(12), 1676; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121676 (registering DOI) - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Recently, frequent flood disasters in China have seriously threatened economic development and public safety. This paper addresses the need for a dynamic urban flood emergency knowledge management system in emergency management departments and the lack of systematic knowledge among emergency managers regarding urban
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Recently, frequent flood disasters in China have seriously threatened economic development and public safety. This paper addresses the need for a dynamic urban flood emergency knowledge management system in emergency management departments and the lack of systematic knowledge among emergency managers regarding urban flood control. A multimodal knowledge graph-based urban flood emergency knowledge management model was constructed to enhance the decision-making capabilities of emergency management departments, improve the efficiency of public emergency evacuation, and reduce losses from urban flood disasters by analyzing the shortcomings of the existing emergency management system. An intelligent and dynamic flood emergency knowledge management model was built. This paper integrates multimodal knowledge graph technology to establish a multimodal emergency knowledge management framework for urban flood control. It develops and simulates the proposed model’s application scenarios for urban flood emergency evacuation using the Flocking algorithm on the NetLogo platform. Through simulation experiments, the practicality and effectiveness of the model in real flood disaster situations were examined, particularly in simulating crowd evacuation behavior. The study found that the model significantly improves the accuracy of information and decision-making speed during emergency responses and supports emergency management departments in conducting targeted and personalized emergency decisions. This research provides a scientific basis for emergency management departments to optimize their emergency response strategies to flood disasters and serves as a reference and example for the application of multimodal knowledge graph technology in emergency management.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Urban Water Management)
Open AccessArticle
Nutrient Recovery via Struvite Precipitation from Wastewater Treatment Plants: Influence of Operating Parameters, Coexisting Ions, and Seeding
by
Andreia F. Santos, Luísa S. Mendes, Paula Alvarenga, Licínio M. Gando-Ferreira and Margarida J. Quina
Water 2024, 16(12), 1675; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121675 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Phosphorus (P) is a critical element for life, and wastewater treatment systems can be strategic points for its recovery, thereby avoiding eutrophication pollution in nature. The aim of this research was to investigate P recovery via struvite, namely in terms of the influence
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Phosphorus (P) is a critical element for life, and wastewater treatment systems can be strategic points for its recovery, thereby avoiding eutrophication pollution in nature. The aim of this research was to investigate P recovery via struvite, namely in terms of the influence of operating parameters, coexisting interfering ions, and seeding. This paper focuses on synthetic solutions, although an assessment was performed on wastewater. The results of the assessment indicated that, in the synthetic solution, the minimum concentration for struvite precipitation is about 30 mg P/L, and that the Mg/P molar ratio of 1 promotes P removal efficiency with less contribution from other minerals. In order to assess the results in terms of real-world scenarios, the influence of coexisting ions (calcium and sodium) was investigated. Calcium was shown to have the greatest impact on the process, as 80% was removed for an initial concentration of 200 mg Ca/L. Indeed, these experiments generated an amorphous precipitate that did not contain struvite. The utilization of biomass ash (size < 63 µm) as seeding in crystallization increased the P removal efficiency compared to the sample without seed and helped to control the pH. The precipitation experiments with wastewater demonstrated good P removal efficiencies (over 90%) but indicated a reduction in the purity of the final product (struvite was a minor crystalline phase identified in XRD—15%wt).
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Wastewater Treatment and Reuse)
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Open AccessArticle
Decision Support Systems Based on a Multiple-Criteria Decision Analysis to Promote a Whole-of-Resource Approach for Water Management, with a Case Study of Rural Bengaluru in India
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Tavseef Mairaj Shah, Chidinma Onyekaozuoro Egwu, Mohammad Hammad and Ralf Otterpohl
Water 2024, 16(12), 1674; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121674 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The sustainable availability and resilient supply of safe drinking water remains a challenge that is far from fulfilled. As of 2024, around 2 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe drinking water. The regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are
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The sustainable availability and resilient supply of safe drinking water remains a challenge that is far from fulfilled. As of 2024, around 2 billion people worldwide do not have access to safe drinking water. The regions of Sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia are the most vulnerable regions in this regard. This is despite the fact that these regions are home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies. However, economic growth and rapid urbanization may also be connected to the increasing water stress in the suburban and rural areas. We propose addressing the two main challenges in this regard, which are the selection of the suitable treatment and distribution systems for different contexts using a decision support system following a Whole-of-Resource Approach (WORA). This approach considers the different water sources and sinks as contributing to a positive or negative change in the single resource, irrespective of whether the resource, in this case water, is used for domestic, industrial, or agricultural purposes. In this regard, this paper presents an illustrative proof of concept for such a decision support tool based on a multiple-criteria decision analysis. The decision support tool is aimed at facilitating water management within a WORA by providing recommendations regarding rainwater harvesting and savings in agricultural water consumption, in addition to suggesting water treatment and distribution systems, enabling systemic water resource management adapted to local context-specific conditions and needs.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Eye4water—Strengthening the Water Management Practices (in EMT-R) through the Development of Innovative ICT Methodologies and Improvement of Research Infrastructures)
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Open AccessArticle
Exploring Integrated Ocean Management Policy in China: Evolution, Challenges, and Prospects
by
Hao Kong, Yuqi Zhang, Yi Zhang, Yao Xu, Gang Zhou and Su Wang
Water 2024, 16(12), 1673; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121673 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Integrated ocean management (IOM) aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and serves as a crucial strategy for promoting the enduring health of marine ecosystems and the sustainable utilization of marine resources. An analysis of the evolution of China’s integrated ocean
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Integrated ocean management (IOM) aligns with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and serves as a crucial strategy for promoting the enduring health of marine ecosystems and the sustainable utilization of marine resources. An analysis of the evolution of China’s integrated ocean management policy (IOMP) is crucial for providing valuable guidance in achieving sustainable growth in marine management and the marine economy for both China and other coastal nations worldwide. This paper studies the evolution characteristics, challenges, and prospects of IOMP in China since 1978 using content analysis. The findings indicate that the evolution of IOMP can be categorized into four stages: the germination period (1978–1998), the construction period (1999–2009), the systematization period (2010–2017), and the strategization period (2018–present), based on the state of international marine management. The IOMP has transitioned over time from its initial emphasis on resource development during the germination period to a strategization period that prioritizes the full development of all parts of the system. However, the ultimate goal has consistently been to achieve harmonious coexistence between people and the sea. China’s IOMP has experienced a progressive development; nevertheless, it continues to encounter obstacles such as the pressing requirement to revise sea-related policies and the absence of policy alignment. The objective of this paper is to explore the evolution, challenges, and prospects of China’s IOMP to better improve the land–sea coordination policy, strengthen international judicial cooperation. and provide effective policy reference for other maritime countries.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Marine Bearing Capacity and Economic Growth)
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Open AccessArticle
Landscape Drivers of Floods Genesis (Case Study: Mayo Mizao Peri-Urban Watershed in Far North Cameroon)
by
Lucas Bouba, Pierre-Alain Ayral and Sophie Sauvagnargues
Water 2024, 16(12), 1672; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121672 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Landscape has significant effects on hydrological processes in a watershed. In the Sudano-Sahelian area, watersheds are subjected to a quick change in landscape patterns due to the human footprint, and the exact role of the actual landscape features in the modification of the
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Landscape has significant effects on hydrological processes in a watershed. In the Sudano-Sahelian area, watersheds are subjected to a quick change in landscape patterns due to the human footprint, and the exact role of the actual landscape features in the modification of the hydrological process remains elusive. This study tends to assess the effects of landscape on the genesis of the runoff in the Mayo Mizao watershed. To achieve this goal, 62 infiltration tests were performed at different points and depths (5 cm and 20 cm) using the double-ring method and the Porchet method. The results show that the combination of many factors (soil type, land use, and farming practices) can guide the hydraulic conductivity behavior of soils. For example, at 5 cm depths, clayey-evolved soils, such as vertisols and halomorphic soils, inhibit infiltration, as opposed to non-evolved mineral soils, such as lithosols and clayey-sandy soils. However, at 20 cm depths, gray soils with halomorphic tendencies followed by vertisols have a low sensitivity to infiltration, as opposed to soils derived from loose materials and halomorphic soils. For a given soil type, rainfed crops are the primary land use that runs against infiltration. However, the effect of tillage varies according to the soil type. Finally, given the extent of vertisols and halomorphic soils in the Far North region of Cameroon in general, and in the Mayo Mizao watershed in particular, and regarding the increase in cultivated areas, a probable reduction in the infiltration capacity of soils in this region is to be expected in the medium term. The results of this study can be used as a basis for land-use planning and sustainable watershed management in semi-arid tropical zones.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Advances in Hydro-Geological Research in Arid and Semi-Arid Areas)
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Open AccessArticle
Assessing Zebra Mussels’ Impact on Fishway Efficiency: McNary Lock and Dam Case Study
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Avery Schemmel, David L. Smith, Marcela Politano, Damian Walter and Jeremy Crossland
Water 2024, 16(12), 1671; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121671 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The Columbia River Basin faces a threat from the potential invasion of zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), notorious for their ability to attach to various substrates, including concrete, which is common in fishway construction. Extensive mussel colonization within fishways may affect fish
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The Columbia River Basin faces a threat from the potential invasion of zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha), notorious for their ability to attach to various substrates, including concrete, which is common in fishway construction. Extensive mussel colonization within fishways may affect fish passage by altering flow patterns or creating physical barriers, leading to increased travel times, or potentially preventing passage altogether. Many factors affect mussel habitat suitability including vectors of dispersal, water parameters, and various hydrodynamic quantities, such as water depth, velocity, and turbulence. The objective of this study is to assess the potential for zebra mussels to attach to fishway surfaces and form colonies in the McNary Lock and Dam Oregon-shore fishway and evaluate the potential impact of this infestation on the fishway’s efficiency. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model of the McNary Oregon-shore fishway was developed using the open-source code OpenFOAM, with the two-phase solver interFoam. Mesh quality is critical to obtain a reliable solution, so the numerical mesh was refined near the free surface and all solid surfaces to properly capture the complex flow patterns and free surface location. The simulation results for the 6-year average flow rate showed good agreement with the measured water column depth over each weir. Regions susceptible to mussel infestation were identified, and an analysis was performed to determine the mussel’s preference to colonize as a function of the depth-averaged velocity, water depth, and wall shear stress. Habitat suitability criteria were applied to the output of the hydraulic variables from the CFD solution and provided insight into the potential impact on the fishway efficiency. Details on the mesh construction, model setup, and numerical results are presented and discussed.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Assessment of Hydropower Sustainability in River Habitats and Aquatic Biota)
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Open AccessArticle
Vision Transformer for Flood Detection Using Satellite Images from Sentinel-1 and Sentinel-2
by
Ilias Chamatidis, Denis Istrati and Nikos D. Lagaros
Water 2024, 16(12), 1670; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121670 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Floods are devastating phenomena that occur almost all around the world and are responsible for significant losses, in terms of both human lives and economic damages. When floods occur, one of the challenges that emergency response agencies face is the identification of the
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Floods are devastating phenomena that occur almost all around the world and are responsible for significant losses, in terms of both human lives and economic damages. When floods occur, one of the challenges that emergency response agencies face is the identification of the flooded area so that access points and safe routes can be determined quickly. This study presents a flood detection methodology that combines transfer learning with vision transformers and satellite images from open datasets. Transformers are powerful models that have been successfully applied in Natural Language Processing (NLP). A variation of this model is the vision transformer (ViT), which can be applied to image classification tasks. The methodology is applied and evaluated for two types of satellite images: Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images from Sentinel-1 and Multispectral Instrument (MSI) images from Sentinel-2. By using a pre-trained vision transformer and transfer learning, the model is fine-tuned on these two datasets to train the models to determine whether the images contain floods. It is found that the proposed methodology achieves an accuracy of 84.84% on the Sentinel-1 dataset and 83.14% on the Sentinel-2 dataset, revealing its insensitivity to the image type and applicability to a wide range of available visual data for flood detection. Moreover, this study shows that the proposed approach outperforms state-of-the-art CNN models by up to 15% on the SAR images and 9% on the MSI images. Overall, it is shown that the combination of transfer learning, vision transformers, and satellite images is a promising tool for flood risk management experts and emergency response agencies.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Artificial Intelligence (AI) Applied in Civil Engineering, 2nd Volume)
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Open AccessArticle
Analysis of Water Temperature Variations in the Yangtze River’s Upper and Middle Reaches in the Context of Cascade Hydropower Development
by
Zhangpeng Wang, Jun Ma, Shengde Yu, Yaqian Xu, Zeyi Tao, Jiaqi Zhang, Ran Xiao, Hao Wei and Defu Liu
Water 2024, 16(12), 1669; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121669 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
The establishment and operation of cascade reservoirs in the mainstream of the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze River have changed the river’s thermal regimes. This study analyzed the correlation between water temperature and its influencing factors and employed various evaluation indexes—including
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The establishment and operation of cascade reservoirs in the mainstream of the upper and middle reaches of the Yangtze River have changed the river’s thermal regimes. This study analyzed the correlation between water temperature and its influencing factors and employed various evaluation indexes—including (the temperature-increasing index, °C/100 km), (the extreme fluctuation index), (the baseline deviation index), and (the phase offset time index). The aim was to uncover the variation characteristics and influencing factors of water temperature and quantify the impact of cascade reservoir construction on annual and seasonal water temperature rhythms. Our findings show that the construction and operation of cascade reservoirs weaken the synchronization of water temperature and air temperature downstream. The construction and operation of cascade reservoirs in the middle and lower reaches of the Jinsha River led to obvious homogenization, baseline deviation, and lagging effects on water temperature downstream, which intensified with the increase in storage capacity. These effects were more pronounced in colder months compared to warmer months. Additionally, the influence of tributaries and water–air heat exchange on these effects is alleviated to different degrees. These results are significant for assessing river ecological health in the context of cascade hydropower development.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Climate Change and Human Impact on Freshwater Water Resources: Rivers and Lakes)
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Open AccessArticle
Enhanced Biological Nitrate Removal from Groundwater in Humid Tropical Regions Using Corn Cob-Based Permeable Reactive Barriers: A Case Study from Panama
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Graciela Cecilia Sánchez Hidalgo, Maria De Los Ángeles Ortega and Euclides Deago
Water 2024, 16(12), 1668; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121668 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Nitrate contamination in groundwater is a global concern due to its widespread presence and consequential social, environmental, and economic ramifications. This study investigates the efficacy of biological denitrification in a humid tropical setting, utilizing corn cob in batch and column tests to assess
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Nitrate contamination in groundwater is a global concern due to its widespread presence and consequential social, environmental, and economic ramifications. This study investigates the efficacy of biological denitrification in a humid tropical setting, utilizing corn cob in batch and column tests to assess nitrate removal under varying conditions. Batch tests demonstrated the nitrate removal efficiencies of 93.14%, 91.58%, 90.77%, and 98.74% for initial concentrations of 22.18 ± 2.82 mg/L, 27.3 mg/L, 69.1 ± 1.2 mg/L and 115.08 ± 1.88 mg/L, respectively. In the column test, the removal efficiency was 99.86%, 87.13%, and 74%, and the denitrification rate was 32.82, 53.43, and 83.53 mg NO3−-N/L d, for a hydraulic retention time (HRT) of 24 h, 16 h, and 7 h, respectively. Predominantly, nitrate removal occurred via biological denitrification, particularly favoring a 24 h HRT. The corn cob effectively removed high nitrate concentrations of up to 115 mg NO3−-N/L. Scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy revealed surface characteristic changes of the carbon source pre- and post-denitrification. This research sheds light on the potential of biological denitrification using corn cob in humid tropical environments, offering a promising avenue for addressing nitrate contamination challenges in groundwater systems.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biological Treatment of Water Contaminants: A New Insight)
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Open AccessReview
Arctic Oceanic Carbon Cycle: A Comprehensive Review of Mechanisms, Regulations, and Models
by
Xudong Ye, Baiyu Zhang, Justin Dawson, Christabel D. Amon, Chisom Ezechukwu, Ezinne Igwegbe, Qiao Kang, Xing Song and Bing Chen
Water 2024, 16(12), 1667; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121667 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
Understanding the oceanic carbon cycle, particularly in the Arctic regions, is crucial for addressing climate change. However, significant research gaps persist, especially regarding climate effects on the oceanic carbon cycle in these regions. This review systematically explores Arctic-related research, focusing on mechanisms, regulatory
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Understanding the oceanic carbon cycle, particularly in the Arctic regions, is crucial for addressing climate change. However, significant research gaps persist, especially regarding climate effects on the oceanic carbon cycle in these regions. This review systematically explores Arctic-related research, focusing on mechanisms, regulatory frameworks, and modelling approaches in the oceanic carbon cycle, carbon sink, climate change impact, and maritime shipping. The findings highlight the Arctic’s limited observer presence and high operational costs, hindering the data availability and studies on carbon-cycle changes. This underscores the need to integrate real-time Arctic Ocean monitoring data. Carbon sink research urgently requires direct methods to measure anthropogenic carbon uptake and address uncertainties in air–ocean carbon fluxes due to sea ice melting. Unlike terrestrial carbon cycling research, carbon-cycle studies in the oceans, which are essential for absorbing anthropogenic emissions, receive insufficient attention, especially in the Arctic regions. Numerous policies often fall short in achieving effective mitigation, frequently depending on voluntary or market-based approaches. Analyzing carbon-cycle and sink models has uncovered limitations, primarily due to their global perspective, hampering in-depth assessments of climate change effects on the Arctic regions. To pave the way for future research, enhancing Arctic Ocean climate data availability is recommended, as well as fostering international cooperation in carbon-cycle research, enforcing carbon policies, and improving regional modelling in the Arctic Ocean.
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(This article belongs to the Section Oceans and Coastal Zones)
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Advanced Machine Learning and Water Quality Index (WQI) Assessment: Evaluating Groundwater Quality at the Yopurga Landfill
by
Hongmei Zheng, Shiwei Hou, Jing Liu, Yanna Xiong and Yuxin Wang
Water 2024, 16(12), 1666; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121666 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
As industrial development and population growth continue, water pollution has become increasingly severe, particularly in rapidly industrializing regions like the area surrounding the Yopurga landfill. Ensuring water resource safety and environmental protection necessitates effective water quality monitoring and assessment. This paper explores the
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As industrial development and population growth continue, water pollution has become increasingly severe, particularly in rapidly industrializing regions like the area surrounding the Yopurga landfill. Ensuring water resource safety and environmental protection necessitates effective water quality monitoring and assessment. This paper explores the application of advanced machine learning technologies and the Water Quality Index (WQI) model as a comprehensive method for accurately assessing groundwater quality near the Yopurga landfill. The methodology involves selecting water quality indicators based on available data and the hydrochemical characteristics of the study area, comparing the performance of Decision Trees, Random Forest, and Xgboost algorithms in predicting water quality, and identifying the optimal algorithm to determine indicator weights. Indicators are scored using appropriate sub-index (SI) functions, and six different aggregation functions are compared to find the most suitable one. The study reveals that the Xgboost model surpasses Decision Trees and Random Forest models in water quality prediction. The top three indicator weights identified are pH, Manganese (Mn), and Nickel (Ni). The SWM model, with a 0% overestimation eclipsing rate and a 34% underestimation eclipsing rate, is chosen as the most appropriate WQI model for evaluating groundwater quality at the Yopurga landfill. According to the WQI results from the SWM aggregation function, the overall water quality in the area ranges from moderately polluted to slightly polluted. These assessment results provide a scientific basis for regional water environment protection.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Resources, Environment, and Ecosystems: Application of New Technology)
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Open AccessArticle
Baseflow from Snow and Rain in Mountain Watersheds
by
Helen Flynn, Steven R. Fassnacht, Marin S. MacDonald and Anna K. D. Pfohl
Water 2024, 16(12), 1665; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121665 - 12 Jun 2024
Abstract
After peak snowmelt, baseflow is the primary contributor to streamflow in snow-dominated watersheds. These low flows provide important water for municipal, agricultural, and recreational purposes once peak flows have been allocated. This study examines the correlation between peak snow water equivalent (SWE), post-peak
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After peak snowmelt, baseflow is the primary contributor to streamflow in snow-dominated watersheds. These low flows provide important water for municipal, agricultural, and recreational purposes once peak flows have been allocated. This study examines the correlation between peak snow water equivalent (SWE), post-peak SWE precipitation, and baseflow characteristics, including any yearly lag in baseflow. To reflect the hydrologic processes that are occurring in snow-dominated watersheds, we propose using a melt year (MY) beginning with the onset of snowmelt contributions (the first deviation from baseflow) and ending with the onset of the following year’s snowmelt contributions. We identified the beginning of an MY and extracted the subsequent baseflow values using flow duration curves (FDCs) for 12 watersheds of varying sizes across Colorado, USA. Based on the findings, peak SWE and summer rain both dictate baseflow, especially for the larger watersheds evaluated, as identified by higher correlations with the MY-derived baseflow. Lags in the correlation between baseflow and peak SWE are best identified when low-snow years are investigated separately from high-snow years. The MY is a different and more effective approach to calculating baseflow using FDCs in snow-dominated watersheds in Colorado.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cold Region Hydrology and Hydraulics)
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Estimating Shear Strength of Marine Soft Clay Sediment: Experimental Research and Hybrid Ensemble Artificial Intelligence Modeling
by
Shuyu Hu, Zhikang Li, Haoyu Wang, Zhibo Xue, Peng Tan, Kun Tan, Yao Wu and Xianhui Feng
Water 2024, 16(12), 1664; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121664 - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the design of offshore engineering foundations, a critical consideration involves determining the peak shear strength of marine soft clay sediment. To enhance the accuracy of estimating this value, a database containing 729 direct shear tests on marine soft clay sediment was established.
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In the design of offshore engineering foundations, a critical consideration involves determining the peak shear strength of marine soft clay sediment. To enhance the accuracy of estimating this value, a database containing 729 direct shear tests on marine soft clay sediment was established. Employing a machine learning approach, the Particle Swarm Optimization algorithm (PSO) was integrated with the Adaptive Boosting Algorithm (ADA) and Back Propagation Artificial Neural Network (BPANN). This novel methodology represents the initial effort to employ such a model for predicting the peak shear strength of the soil. To validate the proposed approach, four conventional machine learning algorithms were also developed as references, including PSO-optimized BPANN, Support Vector Machine (SVM), BPANN, and ADA-BPANN. The study results show that the PSO-BPANN model, which has undergone optimization via Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), has prediction accuracy and efficiency in determining the peak shear performance of marine soft clay sediments that surpass that offered by traditional machine learning models. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis conducted with this innovative model highlights the notable impact of factors such as normal stress, initial soil density, the number of drying–wetting cycles, and average soil particle size on the peak shear strength of this type of sediment, while the impact of initial soil moisture content and temperature is comparatively minor. Finally, an analytical formula derived from the novel algorithm allows for precise estimation of the peak shear strength of marine soft clay sediment, catering to individuals lacking a background in machine learning.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Coast Sediment Dynamics: Historical Development, Current Situation and Perspectives)
Open AccessArticle
Plankton Community Changes and Nutrient Dynamics Associated with Blooms of the Pelagic Cyanobacterium Trichodesmium in the Gulf of Mexico and the Great Barrier Reef
by
Judith M. O’Neil, Cynthia A. Heil, Patricia M. Glibert, Caroline M. Solomon, Joan Greenwood and Jack G. Greenwood
Water 2024, 16(12), 1663; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121663 - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
Blooms of the harmful dinoflagellate Karenia brevis on the West Florida Shelf (WFS), Gulf of Mexico, are hypothesized to initiate in association with the colonial cyanobacterium Trichodesmium spp. and benefit from dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) release derived from N2-fixation by the
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Blooms of the harmful dinoflagellate Karenia brevis on the West Florida Shelf (WFS), Gulf of Mexico, are hypothesized to initiate in association with the colonial cyanobacterium Trichodesmium spp. and benefit from dissolved organic nitrogen (DON) release derived from N2-fixation by the cyanobacteria. Previous studies have detected DON release using direct experimental measurements, but there have been few studies that have followed nutrient release by in situ blooms of Trichodesmium and the associated plankton community. It was determined that long-term Trichodesmium spp. and Karenia brevis abundances on the WFS were related, following a 2-month lag. A separate Eulerian study of a Trichodesmium erythraeum bloom event was conducted over 9 days on the Great Barrier Reef. Concentrations of T. erythraeum increased over the course of the study, with coincident increases in dinoflagellate abundance and decreases in diatom abundance. Inside the bloom, concentrations of NH4+, PO43−, and DON increased significantly. The copepod grazer Macrosetella gracilis also increased in abundance as T. erythraeum numbers increased, contributing to nutrient release. Copepod grazing rates were measured, and N release rates estimated. Together, these studies show that Trichodesmium blooms have consequences for dinoflagellate abundance at both seasonal and ephemeral scales via direct and indirect N release.
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(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity and Functionality of Aquatic Ecosystems)
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Fluvial Dynamics and Hydrological Variability in the Chiriquí Viejo River Basin, Panama: An Assessment of Hydro-Social Sustainability through Advanced Hydrometric Indexes
by
Hermes De Gracia, Cristina Aguilar and Victoria Serrano
Water 2024, 16(12), 1662; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121662 - 11 Jun 2024
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The objective of this study was to conduct a detailed analysis of the available flow series in the Chiriquí Viejo River basin in Panama. This paper examines the patterns of variation within these series and calculates various hydrological indexes indicative of the region’s
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The objective of this study was to conduct a detailed analysis of the available flow series in the Chiriquí Viejo River basin in Panama. This paper examines the patterns of variation within these series and calculates various hydrological indexes indicative of the region’s hydrology. Utilizing advanced hydrological indexes within the Chiriquí Viejo River basin in Panama, which spans an area of 1376 km2 and supports an estimated population of 100,000 inhabitants, analytical methods were employed to compute indexes such as the Daily Flow Variation Index (QVAR), the Slope of the Flow Duration Curve (R2FDC), the Hydrological Regulation Index (IRH), and the average duration of low (DLQ75) and high (DHQ25) flow pulses. The results indicate moderate flow variability (QVAR of 0.72) and a Hydrological Regulation Index (IRH) of 2.32, signifying a moderate capacity for flow regulation. Notably, low flow events (DLQ75) lasted approximately 3.73 days, while high flow events (DHQ25) lasted around 4.08 days. The study highlights a significant capacity to respond to extreme events, with maximum annual flows reaching 80.25 m3/s and minimum flows dropping to 3.01 m3/s. Despite the significant contribution of the basin to hydroelectric power generation and other economic activities, there is an observed need for sustainable management that accommodates hydrological fluctuations and promotes resource conservation. The conclusions indicate that these findings are critical for future planning and conservation strategies in the region, emphasizing the importance of integrating multidisciplinary approaches for Hydro-Social Sustainability. This novel and holistic approach underscores the interdependence between hydrological dynamics, socio-economic activities, and environmental sustainability, aiming to ensure the long-term resilience of the Chiriquí Viejo basin and its communities.
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Open AccessArticle
Study on the Seepage Mechanism of Gaskets at the Joints of Shield Segments Based on Coupled Euler-Lagrangian Method
by
Xiaorui Wang, Dazhao Hou and Songfeng Li
Water 2024, 16(12), 1661; https://doi.org/10.3390/w16121661 - 11 Jun 2024
Abstract
In the construction and operation stage of urban shield tunnels, joint leakage of shield is always an urgent problem to be solved. In order to further explore the waterproof performance of elastic rubber gaskets at segment joints, the finite element software ABAQUS (2022)
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In the construction and operation stage of urban shield tunnels, joint leakage of shield is always an urgent problem to be solved. In order to further explore the waterproof performance of elastic rubber gaskets at segment joints, the finite element software ABAQUS (2022) was used to establish a fluid-solid coupling calculation model. The dynamic simulation of the leakage process at the segment joints under water pressure revealed the whole process of leakage at the segment joints and the instant water pressure value when the waterproof system failed. The results show that during the whole process from segment assembly to joint leakage, the elastic rubber gasket has experienced four key stages: gasket compression, confined water pushing, water wedge and final leakage. When the opening amount of the gasket is 6 mm and 10 mm, the contact stress between the gasket shows a “W” symmetrical distribution of high at both ends and low in the middle, and the peak of the contact stress at both ends of the interface is about twice as much as that in the middle. The waterproof threshold of the gasket is closely related to the opening amount of the gasket, and the waterproof threshold has the same trend with the initial contact stress between the gaskets.
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