ABSTRACT
Frost action, a key factor influencing soil behaviour, involves phase changes of water within the soil. In this study, the impact of freeze-thaw cycles on the compressibility behaviour of typical fine-grained soil was investigated. Soil type and environment influence frost action. The results show that the soil specimens compacted at an optimal density of 1.76 g/cc and moisture levels of 18.5% exhibit the least settlement, while deviations from these conditions, especially with a higher moisture content of 21.25%, result in a 33% increase in settlement. One freeze-thaw cycle significantly worsens the settlement and compressibility owing to the structural changes in the soil reducing the consolidation rate and increasing pre-consolidation pressure. These effects are more severe in under-compacted and wet soils. The results from the present study reveal that proper consideration should be given to the deterioration and degradation of the underlying soil during the design and construction of infrastructure projects.
