Structuration of natural muds in a rheological point of view.

Abstract

This paper discusses the filling of estuary problem which can be defined as the accumulation of fine materials that causes the invasion of muds all over the estuary and that has a direct effect on the fauna and flora in the river, fishing, swimming and the beauty of the landscapes. All this consequences have social, environmental and economic impact. In the context of the study of this phenomena, analysis of the structuration mechanisms of sedimentary materials in estuaries is carried out in order to better understand the fillings estuarine areas and specially to consider sustainable solutions of “cleansing” of these areas. The Rance estuary is particularly targeted by the study. The aim is to provide answers on the rheological behavior of natural vessels by distinguishing the most significant scales to detect structural factors influencing the rheological parameters.