Laboratory Observations of Macroscopic Failure Modes in Freshwater Ice

A review is presented of tests performed in the laboratory by several investigators on indentation in freshwater ice. A number of the observed failure modes are discussed. From the results, a failure mode map has been delineated which shows the regimes in which each failure mode predominates. In spite of differences in experimental conditions amongst the investigators, there is good agreement in the results. The peak pressure exerted on the indentor has been related to the aspect ratio of the tests.