A study of the mechanical response of polycrystalline ice subjected to dynamic tension loading using the spalling test technique

International audienceHighlights • The spalling test technique is conducted to study the dynamic tensile strength of polycrystalline ice. • The results show the sensitivity of the tensile strength to the applied strain rate (from 41 s − 1 to 271 s − 1). • Three indicators are proposed to assess the results based on an optical analysis, a measurement of the wave speed and an analysis of the transmitted pulse. • An increase of the cracking density with the strain rate is observed