Item: Directional Mechanical Properties of Radiation Recrystallized Snow Layers From Experimental Testing
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Title: Directional Mechanical Properties of Radiation Recrystallized Snow Layers From Experimental Testing
Proceedings: Proceedings, 2012 International Snow Science Workshop, Anchorage, Alaska
Authors:
- David J. Walters [ Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana ]
- Edward E. Adams [ Montana State University, Bozeman, Montana ]
Date: 2012
Abstract: Snow’s microstructure is a large factor in the determination of its mechanical characteristics. The process of radiation recrystallization creates a particular microstructure that exhibits distinct directional differences in its mechanical properties. Using meteorological conditions associated with radiation recrystallized snow obtained from the field, such layers have been produced in a laboratory setting. Shear and compression testing of uniform samples prior to laboratory induced metamorphism provide baseline results for investigating departures away from uniform mechanical properties when a faceted layer develops. A procedure based on bond contact orientation is used to describe the configuration or “fabric†of the microstructure. This is used in conjunction with the pair of mechanical tests to describe the degree of directional dependence of the radiation recrystallized layer. Mechanical testing in compression indicates that radiation recrystallization results in an increase in the stiffness perpendicular to the snow surface. Shear testing indicates a decrease in shear stiffness parallel to the snow surface when compared to the isotropic material properties. Importantly, both shear strength and compressive strength were reduced following radiation recrystallization metamorphism.
Object ID: issw-2012-201-208.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): unknown
Keywords: microstructure, radiation recrystallization, snow structure, temperature gradient,
Page Number(s): 201-208
Subjects: radiation recrystallization microstructure avalanche prevention
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