In this project, the objectives and goals have been addressed via six specific work packages (WPs): (1) development of a mathematical model to describe granular fronts; (2) numerical simulation of the established model equations; (3) design of an experiment and validation of the proposed model; (4) project management; (5) training; and (6) dissemination.
Work Package 1: Development of a mathematical model to describe granular fronts
The intention of WP1 was to develop a depth-averaged model to account for the formation of granular fronts. In WP1, the derivation of the model has taken into account the layered development, i.e. under-saturated and over-saturated regions, see figure 1. The model has the advantage of incorporating shear that plays a crucial role in the formation of a dry snout. This enables the proposed model to account for the experimental phenomena in Davies's (1988, 1990) moving bed flume experiments.
Work Package 2: Perform numerical computation by extending the available numerical code
Given that the derived model equations are hyperbolic Partial Differential Equations (PDEs), discontinuous solutions can develop naturally in the system. Hence, a solver that is capable of capturing shock waves is required. In this case, the shock-capturing scheme developed by Kurganov and Tadmor (2000) is employed, since it does not require the solution of Riemann problems. The fellow has extended the PDE solver developed during his PhD to numerically simulate the model equations.
The fellow has simulated an inclined flow for wet granular flows. The numerical results have been depicted in section 1.2.2 in Part B of the periodic technical report.
Work Package 3: Design of an experiment and validation of the proposed model
Due to the disruption of the Covid-19 pandemic, the host's lab has either been closed or very difficult to access from March 2020 up until the end of the grant. Thus, the fellow could not conduct any experiments. To circumvent this challenge, the supervisor has helped the fellow with collecting the experimental data from Prof. Tim Davies from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand and from Prof. Andy Take from the University of Queen in Canada. The model has been validated against the moving-bed laboratory experiment documented in Davies (1990). For more details, see section 1.2.3 in Part B of the periodic technical report.
Work Package 4: Project management
The fellow has received relevant training to project management from the New Academics Programme (NAP) which supported the fellow in completing a continuing career development plan and future project management.
Work Package 5: Training
The purpose of WP5 was to increase the fellow's research skills and encourage him to share his own knowledge and skills with others. The MSCA application listed seven training goals to be completed by the end of the grant period. Via this MSCA grant, the fellow has received high-quality research training and vibrant interaction with the host's group. The fellow has received the necessary and sufficient training described in section 1.2.5 in Part B of the periodic technical report.
Work Package 6: Dissemination
The MSCA application promised to participate in (1) Engagement@Manchester lunchtime meeting, (2) Big Bang UK Young Scientists & Engineers Fair, and (3) Manchester Science Festival 2019 for the purpose of dissemination. The fellow has joined Engagement@Manchester lunchtime meetings to learn necessary knowledge and strategies about public engagement. Nevertheless, due to the disruption caused by the Covid-19 pandemic, the fellow has not been able to conduct any effective dissemination activities. To minimize the influence, the fellow participated in the General Assembly of European Geosciences Union (EGU) 2021 online session to share the results of this project with researchers.
