Microscopic Examinations of Surfaces Exposed by Cutting Ice-Rich Frozen Sands with a Wire Saw

摘要

A wire saw was used to cut sections of ice-rich frozen sands. Low-power (10X to 40X) microspcopic examination of surfaces created by cutting indicated that the saw cut through sand particles and did not dislodge particles from the ice matrix or cause damage to the ice matrix. Optimum cutting parameters for the saw are given. These parameters are consistent with parameters determined in a previous study which used a wire saw to cut frozen silts and loams. A fibre-optics illumination system provided adequate illumination for microscopic examinations. With fibre-optics illumination systems, frozen samples can be observed for long times without melting the samples. Ice-particle interfaces, large cracks, and air bubbles were observable with low power microscopy. However, focusing problems, and apparent debris from cutting, limited microphotography of these features and precluded examinations at higher magnifications.