01155776

Component

A multiphysical model was developed to analyze the coupled hydro-thermo-mechanical field for unsaturated porous materials. The coupling integrates the Fourier's laws for heat transfer, Richard's equation for fluid transfer, and linear constitutive relationship. Coupled parameters were utilized to transfer information within or between field variables. Additional relationships, such as the similarity between drying and freezing processes, Clapeyron equation for ice balance were incorporated to consider the effects of frost action. Numerical simulations were implemented in multiphysical platform to solve the coupled nonlinear partial differential equations. A simulation case was carried out on a relatively simple geometry, using accepted models for thermal, hydraulic and mechanical properties. Results of multiphysical simulations, (such as the freezing induced moisture redistribution, the thermal stresses, etc) are consistent with the basic laws and experience. The phenomena of different field coupling are produced from the simulation results. A unique feature of our model is the coupling of the stress field in additional to the thermo-hydraulic process. This can be used to study freezing-induced stresses in porous materials. The simulation results on a simple geometry indicates freezing induced fracture is likely to first occur on the exterior surface of geomaterials.

01147878

10-0888

English

14p

2010

Transportation Research Board 89th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures (10) ; References (21) ; Tables (1)

Freezing; Frost heaving; Porous materials; Simulation; Soil mechanics; Soil suction

Geotechnology

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2010 Paper #10-0888

BTRIS, TRIS, TRB

Jan 25 2010 10:25AM