Fracture of warm S2 columnar freshwater ice: size and rate effects

Large scale laboratory experiments on size and rate effects the fracture of warm columnar freshwater ice have been conducted with floating edge-cracked rectangular plates loaded at crack mouth. The largest test plate had dimensions 19.5m x 36m. overall crack-parallel dimension covered a range 1 : 39 , possibly for tested under conditions. loading rates applied led to durations from fewer than 2 seconds more 1000 seconds, leading an elastic response highest viscoelastic lower rates. Methods both linear mechanics (LEFM) non-linear fictitious model (VFCM) were derived analyze data calculate values apparent toughness, opening displacement, stress-separation curve, energy, process zone near tip. Issues notch sensitivity minimum requirements polycrystalline homogeneity addressed. Both observed, as well how these two factors are interrelated in ice. There was effect low but no high larger sizes weaker or smallest size.