Summary Draft #2 : How Volcanic Ash Strengthens A Roof Against Powerful Projectiles


In the article “How Volcanic Ash Strengthens A Roof Against Powerful Projectiles”, Williams (2019) states that the addition of volcanic ash layers on the roofs can mitigate the impact of volcanic projectiles on shelters around active volcanoes.

Williams claims that scientists had discovered mountain huts were capable of providing life-saving shelter for hikers during the eruption that took place at Mount Ontake, Japan 2014. This finding inspired the scientists to further study on how the addition of volcanic ash on roofs could reduce impacts of projectiles. Through meticulous simulation, scientists were able to deduce that the thickness of ash deposit is proportional to the roofs’ energy absorption rate from projectiles. Five centimeters of ash layer tripled the strength of the roof from projectiles. However, heavier loads of ash may affect the structural integrity of the roof.

Additionally, he states that scientists expected buildings to take more damage from multiple volcanic hazards as compared to one. Tests proved otherwise, on condition that tephra is placed on roofs before impacts. Williams concludes that researchers will conduct further investigations to determine the optimum range of ash deposit layers to achieve a balance between reducing impact of projectiles and risk of roof collapsing. 

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