Dikes on permafrost: predicting thaw and settlement

• Published in: Canadian Geotechnical Journal
• Main Authors: Brown, W. G., Johnston, G. H.
• Format: Article in Journal/Newspaper
• Language: English
• Published: Canadian Science Publishing 1970
• Subjects: Civil and Structural Engineering; Geotechnical Engineering and Engineering Geology; Ice; permafrost
• Online Access: http://dx.doi.org/10.1139/t70-049; http://www.nrcresearchpress.com/doi/pdf/10.1139/t70-049

Prediction of permafrost thaw and settlement of dikes constructed on perennially frozen ground is important for maintenance and foundation stability. A method is developed for estimating the rates of thaw and settlement, based on simple heat conduction theory. A comparison of calculated and observed rates of thaw for dikes on ice-rich foundation soils at the Kelsey Generating Station in northern Manitoba shows good agreement and indicates that thaw and settlement rates can be predicted with reasonable accuracy.