WIND TUNNEL SIMULATION OF WINDBLOWN SAND ALONG CHINA'S QINGHAI–TIBET RAILWAY. (24th January 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Zhang, K.; Qu, J.; Han, Q.; Xie, S.; Kai, K.; Niu, Q.; An, Z.
• Is Part Of: Land degradation & development. Volume 25:Number 3(2014:May/Jun.)
• Page Start: 244
• Page End: 250
• Publication Date: 2012-01-24
• Subjects: Land degradation -- Periodicals; Soil conservation -- Periodicals; Reclamation of land -- Periodicals; Land use -- Periodicals; Economic development -- Environmental aspects -- Periodicals; 333.7315
• DOI: 10.1002/ldr.2137
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1085-3278

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>ABSTRACT</title> <p>The Qinghai–Tibet Railway is frequently damaged by windblown sand, and this hinders railway operation. To better understand the characteristics of windblown sand near the railway, wind tunnel experiments were conducted for the Tuotuo River Section, a typical stretch suffering from windblown sand damage. According to climate data, the windy period combines with an arid seasonal climate to increase the risk of blowing sand in this area. Wind tunnel simulation results showed how the airflow interacted with the railway embankment to create sand deposition as well as aeolian erosion. Sand transport rates behind the railbed fitted a Gaussian function well. The results can be used to guide the design of sand‐control structures both in the study area and in other areas that experience threats from windblown sand. Copyright © 2012 John Wiley &amp; Sons, Ltd.</p> </abstract>