A Theoretical Analysis of Sea-Ice Strength

For the first time an attempt is made to derive a theoretical relationship between sea-ice strength and the controlling factors of salinity, temperature, and density. A geometric model of the ice-brine relationship is constructed from photographs and used to calculate tensile strength of warm (above - 20°C) sea ice. The theoretical results compare well with experimental data. The model developed can be extended to colder temperatures by considering the effect of solid salts