| Abstract | A numerical model of the failure of ice features against structures is developed. The formulation is based on discretizing the ice mass to a set of nodes that are linked by breakable elements. The contact elements consist of arrangements of springs and dashpots, which represent the required rheology (e.g elastic or visco-elastic behaviour). Fracture is introduced according to a macro failure criterion (e.g. tensile strength). A set of equations describing the momentum balance of the nodes is solved to give the velocities and displacements at each time step. The model is applied to cases of uni-axial compression, plane indentation, and ridge impact on structures. Both brittle and visco-elastic behaviours are examined. The simulations predict stresses, initiation and propagation of cracks, as well as velocity and displacement fields. The resulting stresses are found to agree with available data. |
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