Laser Fluorescence Anemometer for Oceanographic Instrumentation

Efficient and cost effective ocean outfall dilution systems are essential to the health of the ocean enviroment. Unfortunately, wasterfield transport and subsequent ocean outfall dilution are complex functions of the local ocean stratification and currents and the outfall and diffuser locations and design. Variables such as effluent discharge riser spacing, diameter and jet efflux velocity determine the depth of submergence, wastefield thickness and dilution. Detailed field measurements of outfall performance are few and there is insufficient data with which to assess the performance of existing mathematical prediction models. Turbulence models which attempt to predict multiport riser mixing must include the influence of velocity-concentration cross-correlations. Unfortunately, little or no information is available on the form or magnitude of these cross-correlations. Extensive measurements are required to help to establish a waste water mixing data base which could be used both as a mixing modeling guide and for design purposes. Detailed, non-intrusive optical measurements of riser turbulent mixing characteristics will provide new information on riser mixing effectiveness and the effects of changes in ocean current magnitude and direction. These measurements will be made with a new optical probe which will be designed and tested in a simple water tank during Phase I.