The primary objective of this U.S.-Hungary research project between Dr. Robert Ettema of the University of Iowa and Dr. O. Starosolszky of the Research Center for Water Resources is to examine the mechanics of flow and sediment transport in ice-covered rivers. The researchers will employ laboratory and field studies as well as mathematical modeling. They intend to draw upon field studies in Hungary at four cross sections of the Danube and Tisza Rivers as a means of obtaining case-study field data for evaluating similar water-resources developments involving U.S. ice-covered rivers. The mathematical models will directly couple flow, bedform geometry and sediment transport processes. Results should significantly improve our ability to use computational hydraulics as an engineering methodology and tool for effectively simulating flow through ice-covered alluvial channels. This project in fluid, particulate and hydraulic system engineering fulfills the program objective of advancing scientific knowledge by enabling leading researchers in the United States and Hungary to combine complementary efforts and capabilities in areas of strong mutual interest and competence in the field of basic scientific research on the basis of equality, reciprocity, and mutuality of benefit.
