Thermal management in the cryolite zone using thermal stabilizers

Introduction . Contemporary climate change is causing changes in the temperature of permafrost soils. These changes significantly affect the condition of the foundations of civil and industrial buildings and structures leading to their deformation and destruction. The degradation of permafrost currently occurring and expected to continue over the next 15–20 years requires improvements in thermal management technologies and additional cooling of foundation soils used in Principle 1 (or the Passive method) for construction on permafrost soils. Aim . To examine various methods for thermal stabilization of frozen soils in cryolite zones, the operation principles of these methods, along with examples of their application in diverse climatic conditions. Results . The operating principles of domestic and foreign thermal stabilizers are considered. The key strengths and weaknesses of modern cooling device technologies are analyzed. Demand and supply for thermal stabilizers on the Russian market are assessed. A unified approach to their use in cryolite zones is justified. Conclusions . Geotechnical calculations require clear scenarios for specific small climatic regions. Additionally, reference data on soil temperatures, which are essential for designing and monitoring buildings and structures, are unavailable. Although thermosyphon foundations have been used successfully for over 40 years, they could soon become obsolete due to global warming. Therefore, technical regulations for the construction of thermosyphon foundations should be developed and adopted. These regulations would cover the design, construction, and operation of thermosyphon foundations.