The Influence of Freezing and Thawing on the Permeability of Compacted Clays

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This research proposal is an attempt to quantify the effect of the many factors affecting the coefficient of hydraulic conductivity of compacted clays located in an environment subjected to repeated freezing and thawing. Two types of tests will be employed in this study: one-dimensional freezing and three-dimensional freezing. The one-dimensional freezing laboratory test is complicated but better simulate field conditions. The three-dimensional freezing is simpler and more economical to perform. Therefore, a comparison of the changes in the coefficient of hydraulic conductivity in these tests is an essential step in the development of practical, economical, and reliable testing procedure. Thin sections of clay used in the test program will be prepared and studied in order to obtain basic knowledge and how freeze/thaw process influence the hydraulic conductivity of compacted clays.