European Foundation Designs for Seasonally Frozen Ground
Abstract
The report deals with the design of foundations against frost action in Europe, particularly as practiced in the Nordic countries. It describes how insulation is used in association with foundations of structures as part of a process of thermal engineering to produce safe and economic designs for various structures. The use of insulation enables heat management that allows shallower foundation depths and prevents damage from frost action. Results are given from the Norwegian Frost I Jord research project and the work at Lund University, Sweden, both of which provided the basis for the design guidelines of Norway, Sweden and Finland. Detailed slab-on-grade designs ensure that frost heave does not occur. Consideration is given to the design of foundations with a crawl space or basement, with their problems of sidegrip and horizontal frost pressure. Frost protection for unheated buildings is described, usually involving the use of insulation and drainage layers below the foundation with ground insulation nearby to retain soil heat. Designs with open foundations are described as well as foundations for retaining walls and bridges. Frost protection required during winter construction is detailed. Building foundations, Foundation design, Frost heave, Europe, Frost action.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA250833
Entities
People
- Omar Farouki
Organizations
- Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory