The effect of freezing temperature in the freeze-thaw process on the Physical and Mechanical properties of sandstone

Rocks in cold environments are usually exposed to freezing and thawing conditions. The freeze–thaw process is one of the most important and intense physical weathering processes that affects the physical and mechanical properties of rocks by reducing the durability and stability of rocks. In this study, the effect of freezing temperature in a freeze–thaw cycle with three freezing temperatures of -20, -40, -60 on permeability, tensile strength, uniaxial compressive strength, modulus of elasticity, triaxial compressive strength at confining pressures 3, 5 and 7 MPa, cohesive and internal friction angle of sandstone samples of Lalon formation in Lushan region was investigated and the effects of freezing temperature on the mentioned properties were studied and compared with the properties of samples that did not undergo the freeze–thaw cycle. The results showed that with decreasing freezing temperature in a freeze–thaw cycle, tensile strength, uniaxial compressive strength, triaxial compressive strength, cohesive and modulus of elasticity decrease and permeability increases.