In-Situ Estimates of the Tensile Strength of Snow Utilizing Large Sample Sizes

Experimental procedure and measured estimates of the tensile strength of snow are given by a new method utilizing large sample sizes of naturally deposited snow. Data are presented as a function of average sample density, temperature, loading rate, and snow type. The results show less scatter in the data than previous in-situ estimates and lower mean strength values as a function of density. The relevance of the data to tensile fracture as observed in slab avalanche release is discussed.