Uplift Pressures due to Frozen Soil

[lovethecold]

Does anyone know how much uplift pressure frozen soils typically exhibit? Is there a way to calculate this for a homogenous and an anisotropic soil profile?

I imagine it depends on the type of soil, moisture content, and depth of frost penetration.

Thanks

 

[rchanke]

The answer is, "Lots". Or, too much to reasonable design for. Research the topic "Segregation Potential". Within discussion of this topic is the idea of a critical confining pressure that overcomes crystallization and continuing water migration and hence the building of ice lenses.

 

[oldestguy]

To get an idea of what it takes, compute the pressure under an ice skate runner. I guess at 200 plus psi, or 15 tons per sq. ft.

 

[civilperson]

The adfreeze value used in the Alaska permafrost is limited to the top 3 feet of soil, a uplift based on surface area is modeled at 10 psi for pile piles.