The role of thermal stress fatigue in the breakdown of rock in cold regions

Many geomorphological studies have ignored the role of thermal stress fatigue. Engineers have long maintained that thermal stress is an effective process. Physicists and the ceramics industry have provided a theoretical foundation to explain the nature and mode of operation of thermal breakdown. Recent geomorphological studies have shown the importance of thermal stress in cold regions by means of high-frequency rock temperature data which can identify rates of temperature change in excess of ≥2°C min−1. The occurrence of weathered material in cold but dry regions can be explained by thermal stress/shock. Differential radiation receipts on slopes of varying orientation and gradient can exert a very strong effect.