Frost heave prevention measures for canal linings in China

Since the late 1970s, much experimental work has been carried out on the prevention of frost heave in canal linings in China. This paper presents the main research findings and engineering practices on this topic. After discussing the unevenly distributed heaving deformation on the canal section and the effect of soil moisture on the frost heave of the canal subsoil, the paper describes the measures taken in China to prevent the frost damage, including the proper selection of the canal alignment, the appropriate types of the cross section and the lining structures, the subsoil replacement with sand-gravel, the adoption of double lining (placing a membrane under the concrete slabs), the utilization of the insulation material and the prevention measures related to O & M. All these measures should be adopted in accordance with the local conditions.Abbreviations FHR Frost heave ratio, equal to h/H, where h is the amount of frost heave, H is the frozen depth - RR Subsoil replacement ratio, equal to T/H, where T is the thickness of the replacement, H is the maximum frozen depth - URFD Unit reduction of the frozen depth, equal to H/d, where H is the reduction of the frost penetration, d is the thickness of the insulation board