Researchers from the Novosibirsk State Technical University (NSTU NETI) and the Institute of Petroleum Geology and Geophysics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences have created a computational model that makes it possible to accurately predict changes in permafrost. This will help reduce risks during infrastructure construction in the northern regions.
Scientists from NSTU NETI, together with colleagues from INGG SB RAS, conducted multi-scale modeling of soil behavior in permafrost conditions. The developed model takes into account various factors, such as air temperature, snow cover and the influence of building structures, which makes it possible to predict changes in permafrost with high accuracy.
The study found that construction projects, such as warm concrete piles, can cause the surrounding ground to thaw. This reduces its strength and poses threats to the stability of buildings, roads and pipelines. In addition, the destruction of permafrost leads to the release of greenhouse gases such as methane and carbon dioxide, which exacerbates global warming.
Scientists have found that in summer the permafrost can thaw to a depth of up to four meters, and in winter it can freeze to a depth of five meters. Snow cover plays an important role, acting as a natural insulation.
The developed model makes it possible to predict the behavior of permafrost in steps of 10 minutes for daily processes and one day for seasonal ones. This will become an important tool for designers and engineers working in northern regions, where the sustainability of infrastructure directly depends on the state of permafrost.
Source: geoinfo.ru
