Correlation Dependences of Level Ice Strength Properties in the Kara, Laptev, and East Siberian Seas

Abstract

The article investigates dependences of flat ice strength properties in the Kara, Laptev and East Siberian seas on ice structure and physical parameters (first of all, on the ice temperature). Research was based on the array of experimental data on the flat ice properties studied during 2013-2017 expeditions in the Kara, Laptev and East Siberian seas and 2016-2019 work on the research site in the Khatanga bay of the Laptev sea. Analysis of various ice strength characteristics showed similarity of ice in the Russian Arctic seas and in the Pacific Ocean. The differences in the ice strength properties at different loading rates were determined, and the variation coefficients of ice strength parameters were estimated. Dependences on ice temperature were obtained for all ice strength characteristics, and show a good approximation that can be described by a linear law. Indenter and compressive strength correlations were reformed for various types of first-year ice. Regression equations were determined in order to estimate the bending strength of ice consoles; anomalous behavior of Young's modulus of ice was observed during tests of consoles. Results of the work can be used for calculating ice loads on offshore structures, as well as for assessing icebreaking capacity of vessels passing the Northern Sea Route.