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Ice jacking

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Ice jacking is a broad term used to describe the phenomenon that occurs when water invades a confined space in a structural support, or geologic formation, and upon freezing causes structural fracture as the ice expands.

The phenomenon has been blamed for the recent failure of a ski gondola in the Canadian ski resort of Whistler, B.C.

Geologic Engineering

Rock slope failures can occur due to the presence of water; ice jacking occurs when water between joint or fissure surfaces freezes and expands. This type of failure is progressive, resulting in incremental weakening over time, often requiring several cycles before failure.[1]

References

  1. ^ Xanthakos, Petros P.; Abramson, Lee W.; Bruce, Donald A. Ground Control and Improvement. (pp. 737). John Wiley & Sons.