Thermal gradients and rock weathering at low temperatures: Some simulation data

• Published in: Permafrost and Periglacial Processes
• Main Authors: Hall, Kevin, Hall, Alida
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Wiley 1991
• Subjects: Permafrost and Periglacial Processes
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ppp.3430020205; https://api.wiley.com/onlinelibrary/tdm/v1/articles/10.1002%2Fppp.3430020205; https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1002/ppp.3430020205

Abstract The heating of rock by insolation during subzero air temperatures may cause thermal stresses within that rock. The values of Δt may be such that fracturing due to thermal shock may occur. The uneven heating of a rock body may cause buttressing of the heated faces such that thermal stresses are accentuated. Upon removal of the heat source, rapid cooling may occur and values of Δt may be sufficient to cause thermal shock. Replications of these thermal stresses may lead to fatigue and failure. The zone within which these stresses may occur is also one within which freeze‐thaw can take place if water is present. It is suggested that thermally induced fracturing of rock in cold environments may be a significant but underrated process. Thermal results of laboratory simulation experiments are presented during which values of Δt = >500ºC/h occurred for short periods.