Evaluation of thermal effects and strain-rate sensitivity in frozen soil

Temperature variation is one important factor that affects the dynamic mechanical properties of frozen soil under impact loading. Thermal damage is a collective phenomenon that can be caused by temperature variation. This paper investigates the effects of thermal damage on strain course. A split Hopkinson pressure bar was employed to investigate the dynamic mechanical characteristics of frozen soil at different temperatures and different strain rates. The stress-strain curves were obtained under impact loading. The compressive strength of frozen soil showed a negative temperature sensitivity and positive strain-rate trend. Specifically, the strength of frozen soil increased with decreasing temperatures and increasing strain rates.