۳D RANS Modeling of Wave Hydrodynamics Around a Biomimetic Pillar Sponge

Coral reefs serve as essential habitats and natural coastal barriers, yet they face increasing threats from anthropogenic pressures and climate change. Nature-based solutions are crucial for mitigating these stresses. This study introduces a biomimetic pillar sponge designed to alter wave hydrodynamics by modulating velocity, vortex patterns, turbulence, and momentum exchange. To achieve this goal, a three-dimensional Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) model with a k-o SST turbulence closure was employed to simulate complex flow dynamics and ۳D streamtraces were utilized to capture detailed vortex structures. Results reveal the formation of counter-rotating vortex pairs (CRVP), Effluent cloud (EC), and vertical spirals, all responsible for triggering upwelling/downwelling flows. These mechanisms enhance vertical momentum exchange, facilitating the transport of oxygen, nutrients, and temperature regulation across the water column. Consequently, such flow modifications can alleviate adverse climate change effects on coral reefs, such as elevated temperatures, pollutant buildup, and nutrient deficits. These findings offer novel insights into fluid dynamics in biomimetic systems and suggest promising applications for coastal ecosystem management and climate resilience.

کلیدواژه ها:

Hydrodynamics ، Pillar coral ، RANS ، OpenFOAM ، Momentum exchange