Thermomechanical enthalpy model for ground freezing design

Existing enthalpy models of ground freezing are analyzed. Their shortcomings do not permit calculations of temperature conditions to be carried out for artificial ground freezing. A method of ground freezing design is proposed, based on the thermomechanical enthalpy model. It takes into consideration the phase transitions throughout the range of soil temperature variation, from absolute zero to any plus temperature. This physicomathematical model is based on experimental data and, in a first approximation, takes into account the mechanical and physicochemical processes, the initial state and variability of soil characteristics depending upon changes in their temperatures, and stressed strained states. The model includes four zones of freezing soil, which are specified in ranges of characteristic temperatures established experimentally. The model was checked by the finite element method in calculations and the thermal stressed strained state of soils.