A temperature dependent creep damage model for polycrystalline ice

We present a continuum damage model for the temperature dependent creep response of polycrystalline ice under a multiaxial state of stress, suited for ice in polar regions. The proposed model is based on a thermo-viscoelastic constitutive law for ice creep and a local orthotropic damage accumulation law for tension, compression and shear loadings. Orthotropic damage is represented by a symmetric second-order damage tensor and its effect on creep is incorporated through the effective stress concept. The unknown model parameters are first calibrated using published experimental data from constant uniaxial stress tests and then predictions are made for constant strain rate and multiaxial loadings. The predicted results are in good agreement with both experimental and numerical results in the literature illustrating the viability of the proposed model. The model is mainly intended for studying the failure mechanisms of polar ice at low deformation rates with depth varying temperature profiles.

► We propose a 3D thermo-viscoelastic constitutive model for polycrystalline ice.
► The model is calibrated and validated using published data for low stresses.
► The orthotropic damage model captures the tertiary creep response quite well.
► The tension–compression asymmetry of mechanical behavior is well captured.
► The model is suited for fracture mechanical analysis of ice shelves and glaciers.