Hydraulic and Sediment Dynamics of the Euphrates River – Evaluating Scouring, Sediment Transport, and Riverbank Soil Characteristics at the Shatt Al-Hilla Reach

Abstract

This study aims to investigate sediment dynamics and scouring processes in the Shatt Al-Hilla reach of the Euphrates River, with a focus on the hydraulic characteristics and soil properties influencing meandering behavior and erosion susceptibility. Bed material samples were collected from 20 river sections to assess sediment characteristics. Laboratory analyses included specific gravity measurements, grain size distribution, and soil classification using the Unified Soil Classification System (USCS). Specific gravity values ranged from 2.61 to 2.77, and grain size analysis revealed d50 values between 0.166 mm and 0.339 mm. Soil classification identified a range of poorly graded sands (SP) and well-graded sands with silt (SW-SM). The study finds significant variability in sediment characteristics across the river sections. Sections with higher specific gravity and well-graded sediments show greater stability, while those with lower specific gravity and poorly graded sands are more prone to erosion and scouring. This variability affects bed stability and sediment transport dynamics. The results highlight that sediment composition and gradation play critical roles in scouring processes and riverbank stability. The study is limited to the specific reach of the Euphrates River and may not be generalizable to other river systems without similar sediment analyses. The findings emphasize the need for detailed sediment characterization in river management but do not address the long-term impacts of sediment dynamics on river morphology. Understanding sediment variability and its impact on scouring processes can aid in predicting erosion patterns and designing more effective river management practices tailored to specific sediment characteristics. This research provides novel insights into the relationship between sediment properties and scouring behavior in the Al-Hilla reach, filling gaps in the understanding of sediment dynamics in meandering rivers. The detailed analysis of sediment characteristics and their influence on river stability offers new perspectives for future research and practical applications in river management.

Keywords

• sediment dynamics
• scouring processes
• grain size distribution
• hydraulic characteristics
• riverbank soil properties
• stream restoration