Describe about the methods that are commonly used to prevent the occurrence of, or to offset the effects of frost heave?
Describe about the methods that are commonly used to prevent the occurrence of, or to offset the effects of frost heave?
Frost heave caused by ice formation during freezing conditions is an upward swelling of the soil. It usually happens when the freezing point enters the soil and turns the present moisture into ice causing an upward movement in the soil. It is the process in which the water molecules in the pores freeze at lower temperatures resulting in soil expansion
The following methods are commonly used to prevent the occurrence of, or to offset the effects of frost heave:
- Use of non-frost susceptible soil
- Lowering groundwater table through deep drainage
- Use of insulating layer
- Ditching of road
- Use of capillary breaker
1. Use of non-frost susceptible soil: The most effective way of preventing frost action is to replace the frost-prone soil with coarse-grained soils such as gravel or coarse sand. As the water rapidly drains out in coarse-grained soil, there is no possibility of frost action occurring.
2. Lowering groundwater table through deep drainage: To some degree, drains are being used to increase the water table. They are particularly useful on sloping roads. Drains are also installed under the shoulder. Deformations occurred in the shoulder though when the fill was not properly compacted. To some degree the drains reduced the frost damage and the frost heaving becomes smaller.
Step by step
Solved in 7 steps
