Deformation and Fracture of Ice Under Uniaxial Stress

Abstract

Abstract Techniques for making precise uniaxial tests for strength and deformability of ice are described. Results are given for tests made in uniaxial tension and uniaxial compression at constant displacement rate, using bubbly polycrystalline ice. These results include stress/strain curves, elastic moduli, rupture or yield strengths, and failure strains, all for a range of strain-rates. A few results for ice doped with hydrogen fluoride are also given. The fracture mechanism for ice is discussed, and the test results are compared with data reported by previous investigators.