Snowdrifting simulation around Antarctic buildings

Abstract The simulation of wind induced snow drifting around buildings by using real snow in the Jules Verne climatic wind tunnel is described. The Concordia station project is presented as a practical case study to demonstrate the relevance of a typical experimental approach at 1/10 scale. First, the snowdrifting mechanisms are briefly overviewed. Then, the discussion of the experimental procedure is based on similarity parameters proposed in the scientific literature. The gist and the reliability of the simulation which makes use of artificial snow are pointed-out. Finally, the projected solution to alleviate the snowdrift hazard around the Concordia station is presented.