Active layer characteristics at ten borehole sites in alpine permafrost terrain, Switzerland

Auteur(s) et Affiliation(s)



Description :
This study investigates active layer characteristics determined from ground temperature measurements at 10 borehole sites in various types of Alpine permafrost terrain. To allow intra-site comparisons, a characteristic depth within the active layer was determined for each site. The temperature series either measured or interpolated for that depth were used to investigate different thermal stages during the annual thawing and refreezing cycle. The relation between air temperature thawing-degree days and active layer thickness (ALT) was investigated on an annual, seasonal and daily basis. It is showed that at least daily data are required to establish the relevant characteristics of active layer development. Periods of slow advance of the thaw plane, interpreted as being due to the presence of ice-bearing layers within the active layer, are particularly important to the final ALT.


Type de document :
Article de périodique

Source :
Permafrost and periglacial processes, issn : 1045-6740, 2012, vol. 23, n°. 2, p. 138-151, nombre de pages : 14, Références bibliographiques : 45 ref.

Date :
2012

Editeur :
Pays édition : Royaume-Uni, Chichester, Wiley