International Snow Science Workshop Proceedings - Montana State University Library

Item: A GUIDANCE FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF PROPAGATION SAW TESTS

• • Title: A GUIDANCE FOR THE INTERPRETATION OF PROPAGATION SAW TESTS

    Proceedings: International Snow Science Workshop 2024, Tromsø, Norway

    Authors:

    • Philipp L. Rosendahl  [ Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute of Structural Mechanics and Design, Darmstadt, Germany ]
    • Valentin Adam  [ Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute of Structural Mechanics and Design, Darmstadt, Germany ]  [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland ]
    • Stephan Harvey  [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland ]
    • Bastian Bergfeld  [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland ]
    • Florian Rheinschmidt  [ Technical University of Darmstadt, Institute of Structural Mechanics and Design, Darmstadt, Germany ]
    • Melin D. E. Walet  [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland ]
    • Jakob Schöttner  [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland ]
    • Alec van Herwijnen  [ WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland ]
    • Philipp Weißgraeber  [ University of Rostock, Chair of Lighweight Design, Rostock, Germany ]

    Date: 2024-09-23

    Abstract: Assessing snowpack stability is crucial for determining the avalanche danger level. In this context, the propagation saw test is a valuable tool, though its results can be difficult to interpret. This paper aims to provide practical guidance for interpreting PST results by establishing direct connections between test outcomes and interpretable parameters. Despite nearly two decades of use, a definitive guide for PST interpretation is still lacking, with outcomes categorized as no propagation, crack arrest, or full propagation. We address the influence of factors such as slope angle and slab geometry on critical cut length and introduce an analytical model for real-time assessment. Utilizing data from 271 PSTs, we offer an interpretation tool to enhance comparability across different terrains and conditions.

    Object ID: ISSW2024_O3.4.pdf

    Language of Article: English

    Presenter(s): Philipp Rosendahl

    Keywords: Dry-snow slab avalanches, fracture toughness, stability test, propagation saw test, propagation probability, real-time application

    Page Number(s): 422 - 425

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