Comprehensive Zonation and Durability Analysis of China's Plateau Infrastructure Under Freeze-Thaw Conditions

A team of researchers has conducted an in-depth analysis of China's plateau infrastructure durability amid persistent freeze-thaw cycles, publishing their findings in the journal Engineering. The study highlights the adverse effects of repeated F–T cycles on concrete structures in the Chinese Plateau, raising concerns over their longevity and performance degradation. The investigators point out that current national standards for designing frost-resistant concrete are inadequate, as they primarily consider the coldest monthly temperatures without accounting for the complex spatial and temporal variations, as well as the amplitude and frequency of freeze-thaw events. To improve assessment accuracy, the team developed a sophisticated spatiotemporal distribution model utilizing statistical methods and spatial interpolation to evaluate the long-term impacts of F–T cycles on infrastructure. A key outcome of this research is the creation of a nationwide F–T action level zonation. Using cluster analysis, the researchers classified regions based on factors such as freezing temperatures, temperature fluctuations, and F–T cycle frequency, providing a detailed understanding of regional stre...