laboratory study of freezing-thawing impacts on railway ballast aggregates

The freezing-thawing phenomenon is one of the most well-documented causes of aggregate degradation. this study investigates the impacts of freeze-thaw cycles on railway ballast aggregates through comprehensive laboratory tests. the aggregates were subjected to freeze-thaw cycles according to bs en 1367-1 standards, and deterioration evaluation indexes were determined. the results indicate significant increases in the los angeles abrasion, micro-deval impact, and crushing indices under freeze-thaw conditions compared to normal temperature conditions. the obtained results indicate that the durability indices under freezing-thawing cycles, led to an average reduction of 20%. the findings highlight the critical need for improved ballast materials and maintenance strategies to enhance the durability and performance of railway infrastructure in cold regions.