Characteristics of Slope Surfaces Deformed by Frost Heaving

Abstract

Many deformation incidents of cut slopes due to the repetition of freezing and melting in cold-district regions have been reported. Technologies to prevent incidents or mitigate the effects are required to be established. However, it is not easy to judge whether the deformation of a slope surface is due to frost heaving because experiences and technical evidence are needed for the judgment. The frost heaving phenomenon is caused when the three conditions of temperature, soil property, and moisture are met. The frost susceptibility of a constructed area can be judged when these conditions are investigated in detail. However, it is not realistic to investigate all areas in detail, which are not clear at this moment. Therefore, data on slope surface conditions, meteorological conditions, and other required conditions of a lightweight constructed slope surface, which suffered extensive damage due to frost heaving and showed the frost heaving phenomenon clearly in Hokkaido, northern Japan, were obtained for the study. The results of the study clarified the following matters: (1) irrespective of the snow coverage, deformation occurs due to frost heaving in a low-temperature area; (2) snow coverage is small on a slope surface with a slope gradient of about 1:1.2 and heat insulation by the snow is not expected; (3) the direction of the slope surface may affect the frost heaving generation, and slope surfaces facing the northwest or southeast direction may cause frost heaving.