Item: Axisymmetric Measurements of Extended Deformation Around the Snow Micropenetrometer Tip
-
-
Title: Axisymmetric Measurements of Extended Deformation Around the Snow Micropenetrometer Tip
Proceedings: Proceedings, 2012 International Snow Science Workshop, Anchorage, Alaska
Authors:
- A.M. LeBaron [ Department of Civil Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT ]
- D.A. Miller [ Department of Civil Engineering, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT ]
- A. Van Herwijnen [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland ]
Date: 2012
Abstract: Current physical models for the snow micropenetrometer (SMP) make the assumption that the tip of the SMP probe only stresses or fractures the ice grains that it contacts directly. However, past research indicates the existence of an extended deformation zone around the tip which contains many deformed or fractured ice grains. A semicylindrical SMP probe was machined for the purpose of this experiment. It was placed with its flat side against a plexiglass window and driven into well rounded snow using the SMP. The ensuing axisymmetric deformation was monitored using an optical strain measurement system. Results confirm the existence of a deformation zone ahead of the tip of the SMP probe. This zone had a visible area of 98 to 141 mm2. Estimated calculated volume of the deformation zone was on the order of 1000 mm3, potentially containing hundreds or thousands of grains.
Object ID: issw-2012-408-413.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): unknown
Keywords: snow micropenetrometer, strain, compaction
Page Number(s): 408-413
Subjects: snowpack deformation avalanche forecasting
-