Measurement and evaluation of natural frequencies of bulk ice plate using Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer

The structure of water in its solid state (ice) is complex. A number of process parameters and the chemistry of the freezing aqueous solution influence ice crystal growth and ice characteristics such as crystalline structure, impurity inclusions, and appearance. The resulting variation in ice properties makes determining mechanical properties challenging. This study examines the performance of a Scanning Laser Doppler Vibrometer (SLDV) used to measure the natural frequency of an ice sample and consequently evaluate its modulus of elasticity. Analytical and numerical methods were used, and the results have been compared to values found in the literature. The modulus of elasticity for the measured ice plate, with a porosity of 8.8%, was found to be 6.7 GPa, which is 2.7% lower than previously published values.