# Modeling a fluid to solid phase transition in snow weak-layers. Application to slab avalanche release

Source: [Modeling a fluid to solid phase transition in snow weak-layers. Application to slab avalanche release](<https://www.sota2.com/research/paper/68fa2ec01e209131ce865cab>)

Collection index: [llms.txt](<https://www.sota2.com/research/llms.txt>)

Data updated: 2025-10-28T13:53:28.341Z

Authors: Francois Louchet

Published: 2015-04-07T09:32:37.000Z

## Abstract

Snow slab avalanche release usually results from failure of weak layers made of loose ice crystals. In previous field experiments, we evidenced for the first time an interesting stress-driven transition in the weak layer between a granular fluid and a solid phase. We propose here an original model involving the kinetics of ice grains bonds failure and reconstruction. The model evidences a sudden transition between two drastically different types of weak layer behaviors. It accounts for the characteristics of both the studied fluid-solid transition and for slab avalanche release observations. It may possibly apply to a number of other granular materials.

## Recorded benchmark results

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## Original sources and implementation

[Original paper](<https://arxiv.org/abs/1504.01530>)

[PDF](<https://arxiv.org/pdf/1504.01530.pdf>)