Thermal Management in Cold Region Tunnels
Summary
Cold region tunnels are subject to extreme thermal gradients that threaten structural integrity, operational safety and long-term durability. The ingress of subzero ambient air, coupled with groundwater flow and seasonal temperature swings, promotes frost damage in linings and surrounding rock. Effective thermal management combines passive measures—such as high-performance insulation layers, optimised lining materials and ground thermal buffers—with active systems including controlled ventilation, heating elements and air curtains. Numerical modelling and laboratory research have improved understanding of heat transfer mechanisms, while field trials across high-latitude and high-altitude tunnel projects have yielded design guidelines to mitigate freeze–thaw deterioration, control frost heave and maintain stable operating temperatures. Integrated strategies now focus on balancing energy efficiency, structural resilience and environmental impact in diverse geological settings.
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Thermal Management in Cold Region Tunnels publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in thermal management in cold region tunnels across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Frost heave force: Pressure exerted on tunnel lining by the volumetric expansion of water as it freezes in surrounding rock pores.
Heat-insulating layer: A lining component composed of low-conductivity materials designed to minimise heat exchange between tunnel air and the ground.
Freeze–thaw cycle: Repeated phases of freezing and thawing affecting moisture-saturated rock or insulation, leading to mechanical and thermal degradation.
Thermal conductivity: A property quantifying a material’s ability to transfer heat through conduction.
Air curtain system: An active ventilation measure creating a directed airflow barrier to prevent cold air intrusions and stabilise tunnel temperature.
References
- Numerical Investigation of Heat-Insulating Layers in a Cold Region Tunnel, Taking into Account Airflow and Heat Transfer. Applied Sciences (2017).
- Investigation About Variation Law of Frost Heave Force of Seasonal Cold Region Tunnels: A Case Study. Frontiers in Earth Science (2022).
- Research on the Changing Law of Tunnel Temperature Field and the Application of Air Curtain System in Cold Regions. Advances in Materials Science and Engineering (2022).
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