Using soil freezing characteristic curve to estimate the hydraulic conductivity function of partially frozen soils

We propose using the soil freezing characteristic curve (SFCC), instead of the soil water characteristic curve (SWCC), to estimate the hydraulic conductivity of partially frozen soils. Shortcomings associated with the use of the SWCC to estimate the hydraulic conductivity function of partially frozen soils are discussed. The hydraulic conductivity function for partially frozen Devon Silt is derived using the SFCC and the empirical relationships for hydraulic conductivity estimation method developed by Fredlund et al. (1994). The SFCC for Devon Silt is determined from unfrozen water content measurement using time domain reflectometry and temperature measurements inside the soil sample. The results using this novel approach compare well with results presented by others that use different methods to determine the hydraulic conductivity function of partially frozen soils.

► Moisture migration plays significant role in cold regions engineering. ► Pore ice reduces hydraulic conductivity of partially frozen soils. ► Hydraulic conductivity of partially frozen soils changes with temperature ► Soil-freezing curve is used to estimate hydraulic conductivity of frozen soils