Frost heave deformation and mechanism of canal with high groundwater table in seasonally frozen region

Frost damage is a complex and critical issue for canal construction in seasonally frozen regions, posing a challenge to agriculture and industry. This study combines in-situ monitoring and numerical simulation in field-scale to investigate the freeze depth, frost heave, and the effect of accumulated water on slope deformation in a canal in Jilin Province, China. The results reveal that the canal experiences intense frost heave of approximately 15 cm during winter due to low temperatures and sufficient water supply. The shallowly buried groundwater and seepage from accumulated water were the dominant water sources driving migration during frost heave. While accumulated water insulated the canal lining below the water surface and reduced frost heave, the combined effect of ice pressure and subsoil frost heave also caused damage to the canal. It is necessary to enhance protection measures for canal slopes at locations, where ice cover occurs. In addition, the freezing process differs between the sunny and shady slopes of canal. Shady slopes experience longer and more intense frost heave, leading to asymmetrical damage to the canal. This study presents the development and characteristics of frost damage for canal with high water table in seasonally frozen areas. It can serve and guide the design and management of water conveyance infrastructure in cold regions.