Proposed scheme for freeze-thaw cycle tests on rock

The freeze-thaw cycle test on rock is a fundamental test in low-temperature rock mechanics field,which mainly involves three indexes: freeze-thaw cycle temperature, time period of the cycle and cycle number. At present, there isn’t a clear reference about the selection of these indexes from the worldwide experimental procedures or scholars, which brings any huge obstacle to the enactment of the scheme for freeze-thaw cycle tests on rock. The methods to confirm the indexes of this kind of experiment are determined, and a test scheme for freeze-thaw cycle of rock is proposed. Firstly, a comprehensive review of the worldwide freeze-thaw cycle test schemes is summarized and the problems to enact this test scheme are pointed out, and the ideas about the proposed test scheme is clarified. Then, by designing the indoor rock freeze-thaw cycle tests, the influence of these three indexes on the physical and mechanical parameters of rock is discussed. According to the results, the proposed test method with different lithologies and porosities is clearly defined. This study will provide a reference for the selection of freeze-thaw cycle indexes and standard freeze-thaw test methods.