A numerical model of ice crushing using a foam analogue

A numerical model for ice crushing has been constructed that takes into account the physical processes identified in many experimental studies. These include the presence and evolution of high-pressure and low-pressure zones, the rapid removal of ice through melting, and the transformation of relatively intact ice (high-pressure zone material) to low-pressure pulverized ice through the creation and shattering of spalls. The model produces cyclic sawtooth load events and pressure distributions that are roughly characteristic of observed ice behavior. The visual and quantitative results suggest that the physical principles incorporated in the model are correct. While still in the early stages of development, with refinements the model has potential for use in simulations of various ice/structure interaction scenarios.