Numerical analysis of the characteristics of waves propagating in arbitrary ice-covered sea

Abstract

Safe exploration and transportation of natural energy resources in polar and subpolar seas such as the Sea of Okhotsk and the Arctic Ocean requires an understanding of the characteristics of ice-coupled wave propagation. Using a time-domain solution involving both the boundary element method and the finite-element method, a numerical procedure is developed to analyze the wave properties for arbitrary ice conditions. This is done by applying a distinction index to discrete nodes representing the dynamic boundary conditions. The numerical results agree well with experimental data for different floe lengths, thicknesses and elastic moduli, obtained by using model ice plates. The elastic deformation of the ice floe depends strongly on the flexural rigidity of individual ice plates.