STRESS-OPTIC EFFECT IN ICE

It is demonstrated in this letter that single-crystal ice exhibits str ess-optic effect or temporary stress-induced birefringence. This effec t can be used in the exploration of the stresses using the standard te chniques of photoelasticity. The photoelastic sensitivity of ice is qu ite high compared to glass and thus, should be quite useful in the det ermination of stresses in polycrystalline materials particularly near grain boundaries and in the vicinity of cracks.