Splitting tensile mechanical properties of plain ice and fiber - reinforced ice

Abstract

In this study, the tensile properties of plain ice and fiber-reinforced ice (FRI) containing primary pulp fiber were investigated through splitting tensile tests. The tests were performed, considering the effects of the loading rate (0.33, 1, 2, 5, and 10 mm/min), temperature (−20, −15, −10, and − 5 °C), and fiber content (0%, 1%, 2%, 4%, and 6%). The results showed that the FRI exhibited ductile failure compared to the brittle failure of the plain ice, and the deformation capacity of the FRI improved significantly. The tensile strength of the FRI was approximately 2–3.5 times higher than that of the plain ice. The tensile strength of the ice was negatively related to the temperature and positively related to the loading rate and the fiber content. A tensile strength model correlating the temperature, fiber content, and compressive strength was established. Based on the reliability theory, the design values of the splitting tensile strength of ice are recommended. The conclusions of this study lay a foundation for further promoting the application of ice in architecture.