Külmumistõus

Külmumistõus, also known as frost heave, is a process that occurs in soil when water within the soil freezes and expands. This expansion can cause the ground surface to lift or "heave." The severity of frost heave depends on several factors, including the presence of water, freezing temperatures, and the type of soil. Fine-grained soils like silt and clay are more susceptible to frost heave than coarser soils like sand and gravel because they retain more water and have smaller pore spaces that can trap water.

The mechanism of frost heave involves the formation of ice lenses. As water in the soil freezes, it can migrate from unfrozen areas towards the freezing front, forming layers of ice called ice lenses. These lenses grow as more water is drawn to them and freezes, pushing the overlying soil upwards. When the ground thaws, the ice lenses melt, and the soil can settle, potentially causing damage to structures built on or in the ground.

Frost heave is a significant concern in regions with cold climates. It can damage roads, foundations, pipelines, and other infrastructure by causing uneven settlement and structural instability. To mitigate frost heave, engineers often use insulating layers, drainage systems, or select fill materials that are less susceptible to freezing. Understanding the conditions that lead to frost heave is crucial for designing and constructing durable infrastructure in cold environments.