Time series data on dynamic crack propagation in long propagation saw tests

This data set includes material and results described in the related research article: Bergfeld, B., van Herwijnen A., Bobillier, G., Rosendahl P., Weißgraeber P., Adam V., Dual, J., and Schweizer, J.: Temporal evolution of crack propagation characteristics in a weak snowpack layer: conditions of crack arrest and sustained propagation, Natural Hazards and Earth System Sciences, 23, 293-315, doi.org/10.5194/nhess-23-293-2023, 2023.

We performed a series of propagation saw test experiments, up to ten meters long, over a period of 10 weeks and analyzed these using digital image correlation techniques. We derived the elastic modulus of the slab, the elastic modulus of the weak layer and the specific fracture energy of the weak layer with a homogeneous and a layered slab model. During crack propagation, we measured crack speed, touchdown distance and the energy dissipation due to compaction and dynamic fracture.