Ice-Seabed Gouging Database: Review and Analysis of Available Numerical Models

Abstract

Abstract Ice gouging or scour may damage structures buried in seabeds, hence research on this subject is important. Numerical modelling is one of the most flexible and least costly methods of studying ice gouging. Previously, information on existing numerical models and their results was scattered in the literature. A new database has been created that tabulates this information. The database can be used to search numerical results and analyze knowledge gaps and correlations that might exist, in order to better understand and further advance knowledge of ice gouging phenomena. The database contains information on 206 runs from 18 major numerical studies. Using the database, knowledge gaps have been assessed. A list has been made of topics which were given little attention despite their probable importance, including deformable ice keel, different-from-seabed trench backfill soil, and simultaneous interaction of pore water and soil matrix in cohesionless seabeds. The available numerical model results show that pre-set gouge depth and the maximum depth of subgouge soil deformation are nearly linearly correlated. Maximum pipeline strain as a function of test set-up parameters is assessed. Profiles of subgouge soil deformation with depth from various sources are also combined and compared in this paper.