Measured Soil Thermal Conductivities and Modified Design Curves for Predicting Frost Penetration Adjacent to Insulated Foundations

Abstract

Methods for predicting frost penetrations are necessary when foundations are placed on frost susceptible soils if problems with frost heave are to be avoided. Graphical methods exist for predicting frost penetration for unheated foundations, however, design information for heated foundations is very limited Insulation levels on heated foundations will affect the heat loss to the surrounding soil and hence the depth of frost penetration.

The paper presents long term measured frost penetration and soil conductivity data for four typical heated residential foundations. Graphical relationships (modified design curves) between frost depths and freezing indices are presented and compared with open field (unheated) conditions.

Keywords

Frost frost depth soil soil conductivity foundation insulation design curve.

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