# Collaborative Research: X-ray tomography to characterize microstructure during stress tests constraining multiscale models of sea ice interaction

> **NSF 0100CYXXDB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT** · Auburn University (AL) · $475,439

## Abstract

Collaborative Research: X-ray tomography to characterize microstructure during stress tests constraining multiscale models of sea ice interaction

Sea ice in the Arctic Ocean has thinned and become more fragmented over the past several decades, a trend that poses significant challenges for navigation, infrastructure, and research. Increased variability in sea ice conditions affects shipping routes, offshore platforms, and coastal regions, creating a need for advanced tools to predict its behavior and inform resilient design strategies. This research seeks to uncover how the microstructural features of sea ice, such as grain size, porosity, and void distribution, influence its ability to withstand forces, such as the pressure exerted by an icebreaker or the stability needed to support offshore platforms, under varying environmental and mechanical loads. By developing a multiscale framework that connects microscale processes to large-scale dynamics, this project will generate insights critical for Arctic navigation, infrastructure design, and climate adaptation. The outcomes of this work will address key challenges at the intersection of geophysical science and engineering. In addition, the knowledge generated has broader relevance to other fields, including rock mechanics and geotechnical engineering. Outreach and education efforts will focus on the theme of "North in the South," engaging students and the public through programs such as virtual reality experiences, and works

## Key facts

- **NSF award ID:** 2438918
- **Awardee organization:** Auburn University (AL)
- **SAM.gov UEI:** DMQNDJDHTDG4
- **PI:** Ali Khosravi
- **Primary program:** 0100CYXXDB NSF RESEARCH & RELATED ACTIVIT
- **All programs:** ARCTIC RESEARCH, EXP PROG TO STIM COMP RES
- **Estimated total:** $475,439
- **Funds obligated:** $475,439
- **Transaction type:** Standard Grant
- **Period:** 06/15/2025 → 05/31/2028

## Primary source

NSF Award Search: https://www.nsf.gov/awardsearch/showAward?AWD_ID=2438918

## Citation

> US National Science Foundation, Award 2438918, Collaborative Research: X-ray tomography to characterize microstructure during stress tests constraining multiscale models of sea ice interaction. Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-06-08 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nsf/2438918. Licensed CC0.

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