Strength of Bonds between Ice Grains after Short Contact Times

Abstract

Abstract The tensile force required to break bonds between ice grains after short contact times (1–500 s) is measured as a function of temperature and contact pressure. The results indicate a sharp increase of the tensile load capacity of bonds alter short contact times near the melting point and a maximum rate of increase of the load capacity at −5 °C. The initial state or sintering is modelled, assuming viscous surface flow and plastic deformation as the main mechanisms.