Seasonal dynamics of the width of talik zones in river valleys

Seasonal dynamics of the size of talik zones in frozen saline grounds were studied in relation to the construction of a gas pipeline with a negative gas temperature.Studies carried out on typical profiles have shown that the talik zone boundaries change through the year in conformity with the seasonal dynamics of the ground temperature. The most substantial seasonal variations of the size of talik zones occur at sites composed of saline grounds. In winter, the outer boundary of the talik zone at the depth of pipeline laying is shifted towards the zone restricted by the zero isotherm by 2.5 m in saline sands when D_s = 0.15% and by 5 m in loams when D_s = 0.6%. In summer, the talik zone increases in size and the configuration of its upper part at the depth of pipeline laying virtually coincides with the seasonal thaw layer.