A wind-mixed layer model for solar ponds

A computer model is described which may be used for predicting transient salinity and temperature profiles in a salt gradient solar pond. It is intended for use in modeling large surface area ponds where wind-mixing would be expected to play an important part in the dynamics of the upper layer. The formulation predicts the depth of the upper convecting zone using a mixed-layer model which incorporates the wind-mixing algorithm described by Bloss and Harleman 1,2]. This is in contrast to earlier solar pond models which have generally assumed a constant value for this layer depth. Results have been obtained for a number of 1-yr simulations of a large hypothetical pond in Richmond, Virginia, and these have been used in testing the sensitivity of the model to several of the input parameters, including the radiation term and the form of the wind-mixing algorithm. The model output is also compared with field data from an operating solar pond and good agreement is found. Results have indicated that some measures will have to be taken to counteract the mixing action due to wind stress, if the upper mixed layer depth is to be maintained at an acceptable level. The model is expected to be useful in large-scale pond design.