Microstructure of ice with physical crosslinking structure and its mechanical properties under impact load

Abstract

Ice is formed by the crystallization of water. Although ice appears to be less brittle under low strain rates during compression and shearing processes, it is still considered a brittle material, which poses significant challenges for its wide applications in industries. Therefore, the study of the mechanical properties of ice has always been a topic of great interest. This paper investigates the influence of single physical crosslinking structure (PCS) and dual PCS on the microstructure and dynamic mechanical properties of ice. Firstly, a solution with 0.2 wt% of sodium alginate (SA), a solution with 0.2 wt% of hydroxypropyl methyl cellulose (HPMC), and a mixture solution with 0.1 wt% of SA and 0.1 wt% of HPMC are prepared. The molecular chain connection methods in the prepared solutions are then analyzed. Subsequently, the microstructure of ice (Ice, SA-ice, HPMC-ice, SA&HPMC-ice) formed from different solutions is observed by a cryo-scanning electron microscope (Cryo-SEM). Finally, Hopkinson pressure bar (HPB) experiments are carried out to compare and analyze the time-strain rate and stress–strain relationships of different types of ice, thus elucidating the effect of microstructure on the strength of ice. Additionally, the variations in time-strain rate/strain energy and stress–strain curves of SA&HPMC-ice under different launch pressure are analyzed. This study provides valuable reference and guidance for enhancing the mechanical properties of ice and its engineering applications.