Year: 1989
Type: article
Abstract: At strain-rates below 1 × 10−4 s−1, low-density weak seasonal snow fails in a ductile manner. In inclined natural snow covers, local strain-rates hardly ever exceed 1 × 10−4 s−1, therefore initial shear failure, which eventually starts slow and finally fast fracture propagation causing slab releases, must be ductile. Changes in initial stability during precipitation periods are simulated using a microscopic mechanical model for weak low-density snow combined with equations describing strength increase by settling and sintering as a function of snow temperature. The results indicate, in good correspondence with experience, a strong dependence of fracture height of direct-action avalanches on precipitation intensity, snow temperature, and slope angle.
Source: Annals of Glaciology
Authors: H. Gubler, H.-P. Bader
Institution: WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF
Language: English
Subfield: Management, Monitoring, Policy and Law
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W69964384