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Two-dimensional model of coupled heat and moisture transport in frost-heaving soils

Journal Article · · J. Energy Resour. Technol.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1115/1.3231062· OSTI ID:6104846
A two-dimensional model of coupled heat and moisture flow in frost-heaving soils is developed based upon well known equations of heat and moisture flow in soils. Numerical solution is by the nodal domain integration method which includes the integrated finite difference and the Galerkin finite element methods. Solution of the phase change process is approximated by an isothermal approach and phenomenological equations are assumed for processes occurring in freezing or thawing zones. The model has been verified against experimental one-dimensional freezing soil column data and experimental two-dimensional soil thawing tank data as well as two-dimensional soil seepage data. The model has been applied to several simple but useful field problems such as roadway embankment freezing and frost heaving.
Research Organization:
Department of Civil Engineering, University of California, Irvine, CA
OSTI ID:
6104846
Journal Information:
J. Energy Resour. Technol.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Energy Resour. Technol.; (United States) Vol. 106:3; ISSN JERTD
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English