Investigation of the construction of airfield pavement using extruded polystyrene foam in the cold regions of the Russian Far East

Abstract

The paper presents the results of scientific research and engineering calculations of rational designs parameters of airfield cover for cold regions of Russia using airstrip in Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk airport as the example. This airport is located in severe climatic and complex engineering-geological conditions. A deep seasonal freezing occurs everywhere. Applying extruded polystyrene plates in the structure construction makes it possible to significantly reduce frost heave and reduce foundation deformation. Performing numerical modeling of structures using «FEM models» geotechnical software complex allowed to quantify the processes of freezing and thawing in the annual cycle for the construction conditions. Based on the research results, designed constructive measures to ensure the operational reliability of the proposed rational engineering solutions for airstrips in the northern territories of the Russian Far East.