The controls of eruption-column dynamics on the injection and mass loading of ash into the atmosphere
Document Type
Article
Date of Original Version
1-1-1994
Abstract
Eruption columns inject large masses of volcanic ash rapidly to levels in the atmosphere where commercial aircraft fly. Ascent velocities of volcanic columns are typically 50 to 200 m/s, resulting in rapid injection (on the order of a few minutes) or large concentrations of ash at heights where aircraft fly. The mass loadings of ash in the umbrella region can vary from 2500 mg m-3 for a 7-km-high column (23 000 ft) to over 20 000 mg m-3 for a 40-km-high (130 000 ft) column, with a linear variation in between. These concentrations are much higher than those known to cause serious problems to aircraft and engine failure. -Authors
Publication Title, e.g., Journal
US Geological Survey Bulletin
Volume
2047
Citation/Publisher Attribution
Sparks, R. S.J., M. I. Bursik, S. N. Carey, A. W. Woods, and J. S. Gilbert. "The controls of eruption-column dynamics on the injection and mass loading of ash into the atmosphere." US Geological Survey Bulletin 2047, (1994). https://digitalcommons.uri.edu/gsofacpubs/1088