Feasibility Study of Buried Anchors in Polar Snow

摘要

The load resistance behavior of buried anchors in polar snow was investigated to determine the feasibility of using them as part of a reaction system for containing the forces generated by pile test loading devices. The test program was conducted at Camp Century, Greenland. Ten anchors were load-tested: eight in quick extraction and two under sustained long-term extraction. Ultimate load capacities of the anchors to resist quick extraction forces and their ability to hold sustained loads have not been definitely established, and no mathematical solution has been brought forward to predict the unit load creep rate or the ultimate load vs. embedment depth of an anchor in snow. The results of this exploratory study established the feasibility of using buried anchors in polar snow for the pile test program.