Model tests on frost heave-prevented channels using soilbags

In order to study the effectiveness of channels of frost heave prevention using soilbags in cold regions, a series of model tests on the soilbag-reinforced channels and traditional channels are conducted in the laboratory. The variation patterns of frost heave, thawing settlement, moisture content and temperature of the soilbag-reinforced channels and traditional channels are studied. The test results show that the soilbag-reinforced channels have significant effectiveness of frost heave prevention. The frost heave prevention mechanism of channels using soilbags is revealed. The theory of frost heave prevention is explaned by comparing the soilbag-reinforced channels with the traditional channels due to the effect of soilbags, namely reinforcement, which is achieved by the small differential deformation and inhibition of capillary water and film water migration through soilbags. Therefore, the soilbags can prevent the frost heave of channels. This study may provide references for the frost heave prevention of channels in cold regions.