Theoretical Analysis of the Relationship between Heave and Net Heat Extraction Rates Based on Freezing Experiments

In order to improve the current design of roads against frost action, the Swedish Transport Administration (Trafikverket) has initiated a research programme. The main goals of the research are to revise the existing frost design models and the frost susceptibility classification system for subgrade soils.A qualitative theoretical analysis to establish a relationship between frost heave and net heat extraction rates based on experimental data has been done. Experiments were carried on disturbed (hand compacted), saturated samples of same type of soil without any overburden. Several different cold end temperatures were applied to create different boundary conditions to make a more detailed analysis.Results were analysed and compared to those of other researchers while pointing out the similarities and differences. Potential reasons for these differences have been identified. Based on the findings of the experimental work, suggestions for improvements are given for future testing. Some preliminary results providing hints for the relationship between segregational heave and net heat extraction rates were obtained. At the end it was shown that there exists a significant difference between the findings of the experimental work and the current system being used in Sweden in order to quantify heave.Godkänd; 2016; Bibliografisk uppgift: ISBN 978-9935-24-002-6; 20160530 (tomede)