Item: Study on snow type quantification by using specific surface area and intrinsic permeability
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Title: Study on snow type quantification by using specific surface area and intrinsic permeability
Proceedings: Proceedings Whistler 2008 International Snow Science Workshop September 21-27, 2008
Authors: Mr. Hayato Arakawa, Prof. Kaoru Izumi, Dr. Katsuhisa Kawashima, Dr. Toshiyuki Kawamura.
Date: 9/22/2008
Abstract: The release mechanism of snow avalanche depends on the mechanical property of snow, which is closely related to snow microstructure. The results of previous observations show that snow microstructure can be described qualitatively with snow types. However, the qualitative determination of the snow types may tend to become subjective. Therefore, quantitative classification of the snow is necessary. Measurements of the specific surface area per unit volume (SSA) and the intrinsic permeability (k0), which are closely related to snow microstructure, were performed on the naturally deposited snow in Hokkaido, Japan. The parameter SSA was measured with stereological method, where section planes of snow samples were prepared, imaged and analyzed. The value of k0 was measured in situ using the air permeameter with a double cylinder and was calculated to be assumed as laminar flow to follow Darcy's law. The results showed that the relationship between SSA and ksub>0 could clearly distinguish the snow types and estimate the metamorphic processes which occur in the snow cover.
Presenters: Mr. Hayato Arakawa.
Keywords: snow type, permeability, specific surface area
Subjects: snowpack modeling microstructure variability
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