Bonded discrete element method for modeling level ice

This paper investigates a numerical method for ship-ice interactions which is vital for safe and efficient maritime operations in polar environments. The study focuses on the bonded discrete element method (DEM) to simulate a large composite ice piece and its failure processes. To validate this approach, a series of tests using a cantilever beam are performed and compared with typical values measured from NRC’s model ices, with a particular focus on flexural strength. Within this validation process, a parametric study is conducted to assess the impact of initial particle arrangements, including the number of layers (or diameter of baseline spherical particles), the elastic modulus of bonds, and tensile failure criteria. An optimal configuration is proposed for realistic ice simulation while maintaining computational efficiency. Using the proposed modeling parameters, an ice plate penetration scenario involving an ascending vertical cylinder is simulated. The estimated ice loads and crack propagation patterns are compared with experimental data, illustrating that the bonded DEM method effectively captures the maximum contact forces. Furthermore, the proposed setups can be extended to simulate similar ice conditions, such as varying ice thicknesses.