Understanding the Challenge: Ocean Plastic and Remediation

Sources & Distribution Modeling

The initial phase of the simulation focuses on understanding where plastic enters the oceans. We utilize simplified hydrodynamic models based on current data to represent ocean currents and predict plastic debris dispersal patterns from riverine sources, coastal runoff, and direct vessel discharge.

Key parameters include surface velocity, mixing depths, and input rates of microplastics and macroplastics originating from various point and non-point sources. Accurate modeling relies on representing these factors within the simulation’s physics engine.

∇v = 0  (Simplified Navier-Stokes equation for steady flow)

Collection Technologies – Passive & Active

The simulation incorporates several methods for collecting plastic debris. Passive systems, such as floating barriers and booms, are modeled to passively trap surface plastics based on drag forces and fluid dynamics.

Active collection techniques, including remotely operated vehicles (ROVs) equipped with nets and conveyor belts, are represented through physics-based controls, allowing you to manage their operation and effectiveness in different ocean conditions.

F_drag = 1/2 * ρ * C_d * A * v^2  (Drag force equation)

Plastic Degradation & Biofilm Formation

A significant portion of plastic degradation is driven by microbial activity. The simulation models the formation and growth of biofilms on plastic surfaces, influenced by factors like temperature, salinity, and nutrient availability.

Photodegradation – the breakdown of plastics due to sunlight exposure – is also incorporated, with rates dependent on UV radiation intensity and polymer type. This process generates smaller plastic fragments (microplastics).

Rate = k * I(λ)  (Simplified photodegradation rate)

Remediation Strategy Evaluation

You can experiment with various remediation strategies within the simulation, such as targeted removal of high-concentration debris patches or deploying bioremediation agents to accelerate biofilm growth.

The effectiveness of each strategy is assessed based on plastic mass removed, changes in water quality parameters (e.g., turbidity), and the overall impact on simulated marine life populations.

Change = Rate * Time  (Rate of change of a parameter over time)

Frequently asked questions

Try it live

Everything above runs in your browser — open SPH Fluid and change the parameters while it is running. Nothing is installed, nothing is uploaded, the whole model lives in one tab.