IMPROVING VISIBILITY DURING PERIODS OF SUPERCOOLED FOG.
Abstract
Six tests of dispersal systems using propane were conducted in Hanover, New Hampshire during winter 1964-65 and a like number in Greenland during summer 1965 mainly on supercooled fogs and in a few instances when air temperatures were within the lower 2 meters at or slightly above freezing. Propane was introduced into the fog as a liquid aerosol to induce spontaneous nucleation either by cooling or by clathrate reaction which may be important in fog modification. The tests show that liquid propane will improve visibility in fogs, is safe to use, and no standby time is needed. The system may be permanently installed with either radio or manually controlled valve units, and is inexpensive, a cost of $20/hr estimated to keep an airport approach zone clear of fog. Details of the individual tests conducted are given. The dispensing apparatus, propane flammability tests, and the theory of formation, growth, and precipitation of ice crystals, thermal reaction, and the clathrate concept are discussed. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Dec 01, 1966
- Accession Number
- AD0648484
Entities
People
- J. R. Hicks
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory