Abstract: The Von Karman constant of sediment-laden flow is considered as one of the most important parameters reflecting the influence of sediment transport on flow structure. To describe the flow structure, the origins of the Karman constant in real terms, the Karman constant factors and physical significance are reviewed, then the Karman formulas in China and abroad in consideration of different factors are summarized. Lastly, a brief and objective assessment on the Karman constant is made, and the problems that need further research are pointed out the energy distribution mechanism should be explored in terms of energy transport theory, and more accurate test data are required.

Key words: Karman constant, sediment-laden flow, flow velocity distribution in logarithms, mixing length