The Motion Characteristics of Large-scale Ice Avalanches under the Effect of Frictional Heat

Large-scale ice avalanches pose great risks due to their high-speed and long-distance moving. To quantitatively predict their dynamics parameters and impact range, this study combines thermodynamic and dynamic properties into a two-dimensional model. This model based on depth-averaged theory and granular flow theory, considers the friction weakening process to simulate ice avalanche's dynamics. By employing the finite volume method and the Crank-Nicolson method, the governing equations for motion and heat transfer are solved. Results from seven numerical experiments show that the friction weakening which is caused by the thermal effect on the sliding surface, significantly reduces the friction coefficient between the ice mass and its substrate, allowing ice avalanche to travel further. The initial ice content in the shear band affects the friction coefficient during both the viscous and Coulomb friction stages. With higher initial ice content facilitating extended movement under certain conditions. Notably, large-scale ice avalanches exhibit a "Volume Effect" similar to other mass movements like landslides, debris flows, and rock avalanches. Numerical simulations of friction-induced heating provide insights into the motion characteristics of ice avalanches, offering a valuable tool for dynamic analysis and informing disaster prevention and mitigation strategies for these events.