Turbidity Barriers/Silt Curtains/Other?

[malakin]

I know that turbidity barriers/silt curtains are not appropriate for locations where water velocities are 0.5m/s and conditions are not calm. Is there any proof of their effectiveness? I understand that even when these conditions prevail they are of limited use. What are the alternatives when velocities are high and waters are not calm?

Kind regards,
Michelle

 

[snafuman]

I have a little limited experience with this, but since no one else has given you an answer...
We used turbidity barriers on a project in a lake. They do work reasonably well, although we did have one storm which created enough wave action to create a significant discharge, and damage the floats on the barriers. The only alternative I know off for where you have high velocities or serious wind/wave action would be a full cofferdam around the site. There are companys that offer temporary cofferdams which may be usefull to you.

 

[BillHolt]

Michelle,

Perhaps you'd get more of a response if you indicated what you were using the "turbidity barriers/silt curtains" for. There are a few conditions where they're useful and quite a few where they're not.

Bill Holt

 

[malakin]

Use is planned for numerous projects in the Bahamas where on infrastructure rehabilitation projects following hurricane Floyd - mainly dock, marina, seawall, revetment construction. Dredging of sand bed is required at a number of nearshore locations. I am now thinking it would be best for the country to invest in a visor grab or similar.

Would appreciate any further thoughts.

Kind regards,
Michelle

 

[nec]

Michele, I have quite a bit of experience in the use of floating barriers in waters that have velocities that you speak of. We have installed barrier in Charlotte Harbor in Florida as well as numerous beach communities within the State. I have found that floating barrier that is manufactured with a woven geotextile serving as a major portion of the curtain that falls below the water line works much more efficiently. It still contains the turbidity but allows more water to pass at a higher rate of flow. NEC,

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