[preprint] [Co-A] Consistent ridging and opening coefficients for multi-category sea ice models with modified viscous-plastic rheologies

Abstract:

In multi-thickness category sea ice models, subgrid-scale ridging and the opening of leads are represented by a redistribution function. This function modifies the thickness distribution based on grid-scale strain rates. There is a physical link between sea ice rheology and redistribution by assuming that the work done by internal stresses in deforming sea ice is equal to the change in potential energy and frictional loss during the formation of ridges. Hence, modifications of the rheology require changes to the redistribution function to be consistent. For the special case of an elliptical yield curve and a non-normal flow rule, associated consistent ridging and opening coefficients can be formulated such that they reduce to the standard ones in the case of a normal flow rule. It is further demonstrated that the coefficients are independent of biaxial tensile strength. Satisfying specific criteria for the yield curve and plastic potential aspect ratios ensures that the ridging and opening coefficients are bounded by 0 and 1.

Short Summary

The sea ice cover in the Arctic and in the Southern Ocean strongly varies spatially due to the formation of leads and pressure ridges. Leads and pressure ridges are formed when sea ice fails because forces inside the ice cover reach critical values. This work describes how the representation of leads and ridges in sea ice models should be modified when different critical forces are used.

See and Download the preprint here

How to cite:

Lemieux, J.-F., Ringeisen, D., Losch, M., Lipscomb, W., and Ukita, J.: Consistent ridging and opening coefficients for multi-category sea ice models with modified viscous-plastic rheologies, EGUsphere [preprint], https://doi.org/10.5194/egusphere-2026-1362, 2026.