Heat transfer in the seabed boundary layer

We present a theoretical model of the temperature distribution in the boundary layer region close to the seabed. Using a perturbation expansion, multiple scales and similarity variables, we show how free-surface waves enhance heat transfer between seawater and a seabed with a solid, horizontal, smoo...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of fluid mechanics 2021-12, Vol.928, Article R4
Main Authors: Michele, S., Stuhlmeier, R., Borthwick, A.G.L.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Boundary layers
Finite difference method
Flow velocity
Free surfaces
Heat exchange
Heat transfer
Investigations
JFM Rapids
Mathematical models
Ocean floor
Oceanography
Perturbation
Phase velocity
Seawater
Surface waves
Temperature
Temperature distribution
Wave propagation
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Summary:We present a theoretical model of the temperature distribution in the boundary layer region close to the seabed. Using a perturbation expansion, multiple scales and similarity variables, we show how free-surface waves enhance heat transfer between seawater and a seabed with a solid, horizontal, smooth surface. Maximum heat exchange occurs at a fixed frequency depending on ocean depth, and does not increase monotonically with the length and phase speed of propagating free-surface waves. Close agreement is found between predictions by the analytical model and a finite-difference scheme. It is found that free-surface waves can substantially affect the spatial evolution of temperature in the seabed boundary layer. This suggests a need to extend existing models that neglect the effects of a wave field, especially in view of practical applications in engineering and oceanography.
ISSN:0022-1120
1469-7645
DOI:10.1017/jfm.2021.842