Litcius/Paper detail

The generalized Clapeyron equation and its application to confined ice growth

Robert W. Style, Dominic Gerber, A. W. Rempel, Eric R. Dufresne

2023Journal of Glaciology17 citationsDOIOpen Access PDF

Abstract

Abstract Most theoretical descriptions of stresses induced by freezing are rooted in the (generalized) Clapeyron equation, which predicts the pressure that a solid can exert as it cools below its melting temperature. This equation is central for topics ranging beyond glaciology to geomorphology, civil engineering, food storage and cryopreservation. However, it has inherent limitations, requiring isotropic solid stresses and conditions near bulk equilibrium. Here, we examine when the Clapeyron equation is applicable by providing a rigorous derivation that details all assumptions. We demonstrate the natural extension for anisotropic stress states, and we show how the temperature and pressure ranges for validity depend on well-defined material properties. Finally, we demonstrate how the range of applicability of the (linear) Clapeyron equation can be extended by adding higher-order terms, yielding results that are in good agreement with experimental data for the pressure melting of ice.

Topics & Concepts

IsotropyThermodynamicsAnisotropyEquation of stateGeologyStatistical physicsMechanicsMaterials sciencePhysicsOpticsClimate change and permafrostMethane Hydrates and Related PhenomenaPlanetary Science and Exploration