Creating initial cracks for interfacial fracture of ice

Abstract

Ice is known for its ability to adhere well to surfaces. Often, this good adhesion creates significant problems, and thus methods are sought to reduce the strength of the adhesive bond between the ice and the substrate to which it is adhered. The first step in finding new methods for reducing ice adhesion is a good method to measure the strength of that adhesive bond. One approach to such a method is through interfacial fracture mechanics. The specimens that can be used in interfacial fracture mechanics testing all require a ‘good’ starter crack. Experience in fracture testing of ice shows that getting such a ‘good’ crack is not easy. This technical note presents both the method used to get such a ‘good’ starter crack for interfacial fracture mechanics testing of ice-substrate bonds, and also details the various failed methods which were attempted.