Load-bearing tests and simulation analysis of compacted loose snow

To explore the load-bearing capacity of compacted loose snow, a loading experimental equipment was developed. Load-bearing tests and finite element simulation research on compacted loose snow were conducted. The research shows that the compacted loose snow undergoes punching shear damage under vertically uniform loads. The P-s curve demonstrates three phases, corresponding to slow development, rapid development, and failure stages respectively. Based on this, a relationship between the critical edge load Pcr and ultimate load Pu of the compacted snow and the unconfined compressive strength fu were proposed. Under vertically uniform loads, the snow's deformation depth increases with the density, and the bearing plate's width has a minimal effect on deformation depth. The comparison between the simulation and theoretical conclusion reveals that Boussinesq's stress solution is applicable for analyzing the additional stress in low-density snow. The results are helpful for the scientific understanding of the load-bearing capabilities of compacted snow and snow engineering.