Towards Cost-Effective Acoustic Tracers for Bedload Transport Measurement

Tracking and understanding bedload transport is vital for navigable waterways and environmental health. Conventional measurement methods, such as bedload traps and RF tracers, face limitations such as sparse data collection and high signal attenuation in water. This study explores acoustic signals instead to address these challenges. We developed a compact, cost-effective, and energy-efficient acoustic beacon and mobile receiver system. Simulation and field tests in the Rhine River demonstrate that our acoustic tracers can be detected from up to 200 meters and last over a year with a small battery. However, ambient noise significantly affects detection ranges. Our findings indicate that acoustic tracers offer a viable alternative for long-distance, accurate sediment tracking, with potential applications in underwater communication and environmental monitoring.

DDC Class

600: Technology

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Towards Cost-Effective Acoustic Tracers for Bedload Transport Measurement