Winter earthwork: embankment construction using frozen soil
Construction of embankments using frozen soils can cause excessive settlement and loss of stability after the soil thaws. This paper contains observations and test results obtained during cold weather construction of a small embankment. Included in the construction phase was ripping of a frozen granular soil, placing and compacting frozen embankment material, and installation of settlement plates and thermistors. Field tests were conducted to determine the size and gradation of the frozen chunks used in the embankment, monitor dry density and moisture content during compaction of the fill, and measure settlement and soil temperatures within the embankment. Results from the field tests were analyzed to assess the effectiveness of field compaction of frozen soil and to quantify settlements that occur as the soil thaws. The results provide the basis for recommendations concerning winter earthwork.