Item: Discussion of the Directional Characteristics of Explosives Commonly Used in Avalanche Hazard Reduction
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Title: Discussion of the Directional Characteristics of Explosives Commonly Used in Avalanche Hazard Reduction
Proceedings: Proceedings of the 2000 International Snow Science Workshop, October 1-6, Big Sky, Montana
Authors:
- G. L. Sherwood [ Director Ski Patrol, Crested Butte Mountain Resort ]
Date: 2000
Abstract: All explosives exhibit directional shock wave characteristics, the explosives commonly used for avalanche control also produce these same characteristics. The purpose of this discussion is that an understanding of these characteristics may allow the field worker to maximize the effect and efficiency of the blast. A presentation of the chain reaction and the resulting shock wave that occurs in the detonation process of the explosive is crucial to enhance this utilization. The directional characteristics of the hand thrown charge is not so much the focus of this discussion. This is due to the random nature of the placement of the hand thrown charge due of the inability to direct the position of the explosive charge. Furthermore the thrown charge is buried within the snow cover in most instances. The fact that the snow directly affects the buried charge blast shock waves has been shown in previous studies and presented within previous ISSW forums. The directional shock wave dynamics become much more apparent as a placed or deliver charges. Examples of these explosives would be blasts that are delivered by explosive trams, bamboo blasts, or large volume ANFO blasts to create surface or air blasts and shock waves. The thrust of this discussion will be to portray these shock wave characteristics in such a manner that the field professional may benefit from an understanding of these characteristics when planning and executing an avalanche reduction blast. It is anticipated that the research for this presentation will show some simple field techniques to utilize the information presented.
Object ID: issw-2000-321-324.pdf
Language of Article: English
Presenter(s): Unknown
Keywords: characteristics, explosives, blasting, avalanche, hazard, mitigation
Page Number(s): 321-324
Subjects: explosives avalanche hazard snow coverage
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