On the effect of phase transformations on saline ice compliance

Abstract

AbstractTo obtain a better understanding of the compliance of saline ice, we developed a simple conceptual model of a process that presumably takes place in saline ice. Using elastic models, we assessed the role that phase transformations might play when brine is sealed into small cells during crystal growth. Cooling of a sealed brine cell, leading to the precipitation of ice, provides a mechanism for the accumulation of “large” localized stresses. Based on our analysis, this mechanism has the potential to be a significant source for the nucleation of dislocations, and can conceivably make a significant contribution to the greater compliance (softness) of saline ice relative to non-saline ice.The results of this model are consistent with the observation that laboratory-grown saline crystals sometimes display extensive differences in mechanical behavior that appear to be due to variations in the growth and storage conditions experienced by the crystals.