Ice friction non-linear modeling at elevated sliding velocities

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel non-linear friction model for ice that incorporates melting effects. By coupling frictional heating with a dynamic melting process, the model effectively captures the reduction in friction resulting from the formation of a lubricating melt film and shear-thinning behaviour at the contact interface. Validation against established literature models and experimental data demonstrates that the formulation accurately characterises the transition from static to dynamic friction over a broad range of sliding velocities (emphasising high sliding velocities) and temperatures. Sensitivity analyses further reveal that the power-law index and shear-thinning coefficient are critical parameters in tuning the model response, ensuring its applicability from low- to high-velocity regimes. This versatile analytical tool has significant implications for predicting ice friction in applications spanning winter sports, transportation safety, and the design of advanced friction-modulating surfaces.