Volcanic Ash

Question 1

What is volcanic ash?

Answer 1

Small pieces of rock, minerals and volcanic glass less than 2mm in diameter.

Question 2

What are the basic characteristics of volcanic ash?

Answer 2

Insoluble in water, extremely abrasive, mildly corrosive and electrically conductive.

Question 3

What medical conditions could volcanic ash cause?

Answer 3

• Breathing Difficulties
• Soreness of eyes
• Starvation of Oxygen
• Chemical gases convert into sulphuric acid in the presence of moisture.

Question 4

What is the Darwin VAAC responsible for?

Answer 4

The issuance of Volcanic Ash Advisories (VAA) within its area of responsibility, and of SIGMET for the Brisbane and Melbourne FIR.

Question 5

How can Volcanic Ash affect an aircraft?

Answer 5

Volcanic ash can:
- erode turbine compressor blades
- block engine components like air intakes and jet fuel nozzles
- block pitot systems
- produce static electricity which interferes with communication