Evaluating the safety factor for slope sta bility under freeze-thawing cycles

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of soil freezing and thawing cycles, focusing on the climate changes in Jämtland, Sweden. A slope in this region was used as a reference to analyze slope stability during freeze-thaw cycles. PLAXIS 2D was used for slope analysis. Climate-based conditions and thermal flow in soil are the two driving factors assigned to simulate soil freezing and thawing. It was found that surface transfer is a major contributor to changes in climate conditions. After subjecting the slope to these cycles, the safety factor was calculated manually and with Python assistance. Results indicate that the slope is more stable under freezing conditions and has a higher safety factor during thawing. Although no failures were observed in the analysis, further research is recommended to incorporate freeze-thaw cycles into pre-construction planning for future urban and infrastructure development.