Geophysicists Attempt to Slow Volcano Flow

Last week, the government team tackling the disaster approved a plan that will use 1,000 steel chains to try to slow the flow of mud. Each chain is 1.5 metres long and links together four concrete balls — two that are 40 centimetres across and two that are 20 centimetres across. Each ball and chain set will weigh about 300 kilograms. The balls themselves will be modified to maximize their friction with the mud.

The general idea is that if there are numerous ball and chains inside the volcano’s mouth, it will force the mud to lose its ambition and stay back. Fascinating technique really, but it will be a matter of weeks before we know whether or not it has helped.

Source: Nature.com