A Numerical Model to Describe the Layer Behavior in Salt-Gradient Solar Ponds

A numerical model has been developed to describe the time-dependent behavior of the interfaces between the convecting and nonconvecting regions of a salt-gradient solar pond. Salinity and temperature profiles, as a function of time, are also determined by the model. The model utilizes empirical correlations from the oceanographic literature that describe the heat and salt fluxes across the interfaces. The model also contains a treatment of entrainment caused by wind-generated turbulence. We find agreement of the calculated behavior with observations made on laboratory-scale solar pond simulation experiments. The model is used to determine pond performance under various operating conditions.