This study examines frost heave phenomena occurring in railway subgrades from a thermal-hydraulic-mechanical (T-H-M) perspective. Using the frost-prone section at the portal of the Myeonon Tunnel on the Gangneung Line as a case study, it analyzes the ...
This study examines frost heave phenomena occurring in railway subgrades from a thermal-hydraulic-mechanical (T-H-M) perspective. Using the frost-prone section at the portal of the Myeonon Tunnel on the Gangneung Line as a case study, it analyzes the mechanisms of frost heave occurrence and proposes reinforcement countermeasures. By combining WT (ground temperature)–WL (groundwater level)–level measurement data with THM-coupled numerical analysis, the relationships between the freezing index, freezing depth, groundwater level rise, ice lens growth, and track heave were quantitatively examined. The research results identified the frost heave in the target section as open frost heave, caused by the combined effects of persistently high water levels due to the water-collecting topography near the portal, accumulation of excess pore water pressure from repeated train loads and rising groundwater levels, and a long-term freezing environment during winter. By applying the concept of adding groundwater level rise (ΔWL) and a safety margin to the frost depth (FD) calculated through measurement and analysis, it was demonstrated that a more conservative design depth than general standards is required for special sections like portals and cuttings. Accordingly, it was confirmed that a combined countermeasure integrating deep drainage, low-pressure cutoff grouting, and localized insulation is effective in suppressing frost heave. This study is significant in that it quantitatively presents the frost heave mechanism in domestic railway subgrades through a case study integrating instrumentation and THM-linked analysis, and proposes a design depth determination logic and a composite reinforcement countermeasure package applicable during the design, construction, and operation phases. The presented results and procedures are expected to serve as foundational data for enhancing future railway design and management guidelines and establishing standard design and maintenance systems for frost-vulnerable sections, such as portal areas. Keywords: Frost heave, Ice lens, Freezing depth, Railway subgrade, Cut-off grouting, Drainage, Insulation, Heating