RHEOMUD
The aim of RHEOMUD is to gain new insight into time dependence of rheological properties. This can be done through establishing a scientifically proven link between rheological characteristics and other physico-chemical properties of mud. These parameters will also depend on the maritime activities (such as navigation or dredging) as these activities have also be shown to influence the mud characteristics. Special focus of this project is on the properties and behaviour of fluid mud.
Existing in-situ monitoring methods (Graviprobe, Rheotune, Rheocable) are used to investigate spatial and temporal changes of rheological properties of mud.
New knowledge is obtained thorough laboratory analysis of cored samples. To map the yield stress, dynamic viscosity and thixotropic behaviour of mud, all rheological experiments are carried out in accordance with developed laboratory protocols. Detailed laboratory characterization of mud samples is conducted to address the following:
- Physical and chemical parameters which influence the rheology of fluid mud
- Required parameters for modelling of fluid mud rheology and hence predicting its behaviour in time and space
- In-situ measurements of mud rheological properties with the possibility of creating a correct mapping of the respective port
- Accepted rheological protocols
- Link between the physical properties of the mud and its biological characteristics (also see BIOMUD).
