Critical Assessment of the 2°C min−1 Threshold for Thermal Stress Weathering. Issue 4 (7th October 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Boelhouwers, Jan; Jonsson, Mikael
• Is Part Of: Geografiska annaler. Volume 95:Issue 4(2013)
• Page Start: 285
• Page End: 293
• Publication Date: 2013-10-07
• Subjects: Physical geography -- Periodicals; 551.4
• DOI: 10.1111/geoa.12026
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0435-3676

Abstract

<abstract abstract-type="main"> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Rock surface temperature changes in excess of 2°C min⁻¹ have been argued to result in permanent strain in rock. The single threshold value and the supposed importance of a rate of 2°C min⁻¹ rock temperature change is rejected, based on lack of a sufficient empirical basis, contrasting results from acoustic emission studies, varying strength properties of different rock types, lack of data on actual strain resulting from short‐term temperature variations, and lack of notable long‐term weathering effects in Nordic environments. Based on the presented discussion, the role of thermal shock weathering in cold regions is questioned and renewed emphasis is placed on the importance of absolute temperature and measurement of strain, as well as spatial temperature gradients.</p> </abstract>