Numerical study on cooling performance of the L-shaped crushed-rock embankment in permafrost regions

Abstract

In permafrost regions, crushed-rock embankments are favored for their environmental compatibility and thermal efficiency. This study introduces the innovative L-shaped crushed-rock embankment (LCRE), which features a crushed-rock layer exclusively at the base and on the sunny slope, providing a cost-effective alternative to the conventional U-shaped design. Using numerical methods, we assessed the cooling performance of the LCRE compared to other crushed-rock embankments, focusing on the impact of its geometric parameters. The findings indicate that the overall cooling performance of the LCRE is situated between that of the crushed-rock interlayer embankment and the U-shaped crushed-rock embankment, and its ability to mitigate the shady and sunny slope effect is superior to that of the U-shaped crushed-rock embankment. Additionally, our analysis reveals that increasing the horizontal width of the revetment to enhance cooling is not a cost-effective approach. The LCREs is more suitable for higher embankments than U-shaped counterparts. Despite the LCRE's advantageous thermal performance and cost benefits, its asymmetric load distribution could lead to exacerbated differential settlement, highlighting the need for further research. This study offers pivotal insights into the design and development of innovative crushed-rock embankments in permafrost regions.