Seasonal Frost Penetration in Pavements with Multiple Layers

Abstract

Seasonal freeze-thaw cycles and frost penetration depth in cold regions can be key contributors to pavement damage, and it is important as part of design practice to account for detrimental freeze-thaw conditions in the foundation layers. Empirical and numerical models have been developed to estimate frost penetration beneath pavements. This case study applies the modified Berggren equation as well as three simple empirical models to estimate frost penetration for multiple pavement conditions. Each of the test locations had an array of buried temperature sensors and different pavement structures. The simple empirical equations performed poorly, but the modified Berggren equation had more promising frost penetration depths. Modified Berggren equation calculations were performed with a computer program. The air and ground surface temperatures were monitored to verify influences of the n-factor transferring air to surface freezing index. Different geomaterial properties were used in calculations to explore ways to improve estimation accuracy. Results indicate that pavement type, foundation layer conditions, and local climate affect the computer program’s frost penetration estimates. Including site-specific information improves the accuracy of frost penetration predictions.