Tracer-based calibration of nonuniform bedload transport in a 2D hydro-sedimentary model

This dataset provides field measurements and modelling outputs used to investigate size-based tracer virtual velocity and bedload transport processes in the upper Moselle River (north-eastern France). It includes the tracking of a large number of RFID tracers (n = 450) of different sizes (16–128 mm) surveyed annually over three years, high-resolution water-surface elevation time series, as well as outputs from a calibrated two-dimensional hydro-sedimentary model (Telemac-2D coupled with Sisyphe).

The dataset was collected and processed to calibrate a correction factor for trapping in a non-uniform bedload transport model, using size-dependent tracer dimensionless virtual velocity. Tracer virtual velocity is derived from accurate field-measured travel distances and from size-based competent-flow duration computed from grain shear stress modelled at the tracer scale. The resulting increase in dimensionless virtual velocity with relative grain size reveals a clear size-dependent trapping signal that provides robust constraints to calibrate the trapping correction factor. Applying this correction to the bedload transport equation reduces size-selective transport and substantially improves the prediction of the observed bedload grain-size distribution.

These data can support further research on tracer-based bedload transport dynamics, size-dependent virtual velocity and trapping effects, and the calibration or validation of non-uniform hydro-sedimentary models in gravel-bed rivers.