A New Paradigm for Multiphysics Characterization of Permafrost Thaw: UAV-Based Subsurface Mapping using Geophysics
Abstract
This instrumentation project aims to investigate the multiphysics behavior of permafrost subjected to thermal fields. A fundamental issue investigated in this study is the possible impact of the characteristics of a third layer, the Òtransition layer,Ó between the active and permafrost layers where the coupled thermal, hydraulic, and mechanical processes are transient because of the interactions with boundary layers. Of specific interest is the evolution of thermal and hydraulic processes in newly thawed layer which can be characterized with an intrinsic material propertydielectric constant of permafrost and can be used as an indicator to understand the rapid changes in active layer-permafrost interface. Therefore, this project seeks to understand fundamental physical and multiphysics properties of permafrost in in-situ conditions to reveal mechanisms relevant to the Army. We are proposing a combined laboratory and field monitoring approaches for a robust detection of changes in dielectric constant using airborne electrical fields in subsurface of which readings are calibrated by snow cover micromechanics. A systematic methodology will be adopted to facilitate the validation of multiscale models while bridging length scales for dielectric properties of permafrost. The proposed instrumentation will provide a platform to perform surveying of rugged and difficult terrains and coupled experiments and will create foundational measurement capabilities that can provide a better understanding of the reactions and transformations occurring at the permafrost-active layer interface.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Jul 28, 2023
- Source ID
- W911NF2310274
Entities
People
- Tugce Baser
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- United States Army
- University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign