Vol. 10, No. 2, 1978
pp. 235-240
Special Issue:
Mountain Geoecology and Land-Use Implications: Proceedings of the Symposium of the International Geographical Union Commission on High-Altitude Geoecology, May, 1978
Artificial Release of Avalanches in North America
Approximately 105 explosive charges are used annually in North America to release avalanches artificially. High-speed explosives (5000 to 8000 m s−1) such as pentolite and blasting gelatin are preferred. One kilogram of high explosive is generally considered adequate; however, many avalanche workers use larger charges (10 kg). The appropriate size of charge for a given set of conditions remains a matter of speculation. Military artillery is effective on remote slopes, although shrapnel and noise are objectionable, and the cost of nonsurplus ammunition is restrictively high. Several alternate systems are under study.
Citation Note: This article was published when our journal had an earlier shorter name: "Arctic and Alpine Research."