Avalanche Dynamics

Introduction, Conception and the Importance of Avalanche Research.- Granular Avalanches: Definition, Related Concepts and a Review of Classical Models.- A Continuum Mechanical Theory for Dense Avalanches Sliding Down Non-Trivial Topographies.- A Continuum Mechanical Theory for Granular Avalanches.- Rapid Flows of Dry Granular Masses in Arbitrarily Curved and Twisted Channels.- Exact and Semi-Exact Solutions of the Model Equations.- Exact Solutions for Flow Avalanches in Rotating Drums.- Shock Capturing Numerical Methods and Simulations of Free Surface Flows of Shallow Avalanches Sliding Over Curved and Twisted Channels.- Classical and High Resolution Shock-Capturing Numerical Methods in one Spatial Dimension.- Two-Dimensional Shock-Capturing Schemes for Avalanching Flow.- Avalanche Simulations over Curved and Twisted Channels.- Experimental Validation of the Theoretical Prediction with Different Measurement Techniques.- Experimental Findings and a Comparison with the Theory.- Particle Image Velocimetry for Free Surface Flow Avalanches.- Avalanche Experiments Using the PIV Measurement Technique.- Avalanche Protection and Defence Structures.- Protection Against Snow Avalanche Hazards.- Summary and Outlook.

From the reviews:



"This highly specialized book is interesting not only because of its important subject matter but also because of its egocentric perspective. ... while readers who appreciate mathematics will find that the book provides an entree to the burgeoning field of granular avalanche research." (Richard M. Iverson, Journal of Geology, Vol. 116, 2008)

"Shiva Pudasaini ... wrote this impressive compendium to summarize twenty years of research in the field of granular flows. ... The readership targeted is clearly scientists ... graduate students following courses in geophysics, applied mathematics, physics, and mechanics, as well as trained practitioners. ... In conclusion, I warmly recommend the book to students, engineers, and scientists who have an interest in granular flows and/or snow avalanches. ... it offers a unique way of entering the fascinating world of granular geophysical flows." (Christophe Ancey, Journal of Sedimentary Research, April, 2008)

"For geophysicists this book resumes the state-of-the-art of avalanche theory. ... Avalanche Dynamics offers a historical and geographical survey of avalanche research in Europe and America and pursues the subject of granular materials in general. ... The book is an encyclopaedic presentation of groundbreaking work. It deals adequately with the subject's mathematics and physics. It should find its place on the desk of every avalanche researcher, and in the library of every geophysical institute."(Helmut Kirchner, Pure and Applied Geophysics, Vol. 165, 2008)