Thaw Cycles Research Articles

Spatial and temporal distribution and environmental determinants of freeze-thaw erosion intensity in Qiangtang grasslands, China

Context Analysing freeze-thaw erosion is of great significance to ecological environment protection and land resource utilisation in high altitude areas. Aims We used seven indicators (temperature, precipitation, vegetation cover, elevation, slope, slope orientation, and sand content) to calculate the freeze-thaw erosion intensity index for different seasons from 2000 to 2019. Methods We used a graded weighted evaluation model and a geographical detector method to analyse spatiotemporal pattern and driving factors of freeze-thaw erosion intensity in Qiangtang grasslands. Key results (1) From 2000 to 2019, the total area of freeze-thaw erosion was higher in the non-growing season than in the growing season. The area of moderate and above-average freeze-thaw erosion increased over time in the non-growing season but decreased in the growing season. The spatial distribution of freeze-thaw erosion was mainly determined by the annual range of precipitation and temperature, which reflect the intensity and frequency of freezing and thawing cycles. (2) Vegetation cover was an indirect factor that influenced the soil moisture and stability. The slope was another important factor that affected the spatial distribution of freeze-thaw erosion in different regions. Conclusions The results show that in 2000–2019 the area of freeze-thaw erosion showed a downward trend. The erosion degree in the non-growing season is on the rise. Implications Our study provides new insights into the dynamics and mechanisms of freeze-thaw erosion in Qiangtang grasslands and contributes to the understanding and management of water and climate change impacts on this region.

Frost Resistance Differences of Concrete in Frequent Natural Freeze–Thaw versus Standard Rapid Method

In order to find the anti-freezing durability differences between concrete in the frequent natural freeze–thaw conditions in the northwest of Sichuan Province, China, and concrete in the rapid freeze–thaw conditions of the standard rapid method, the typical temperature and humidity of the northwest of Sichuan Province were simulated. The results showed that the average number of freeze–thaw cycles in the northwest of this province can reach up to 150 per year. The relative dynamic modulus of C30 ordinary concrete, which is 100% pre-saturated, still remained above 90% after 450 cycles in simulated environments. However, during the rapid freeze–thaw test, even the C30 air-entrained concrete failed after 425 cycles. Compared to the saturation degree of concrete itself, the continuous replenishment of external moisture during freeze–thaw cycles is a key factor affecting the frost resistance of concrete. Rapid freeze–thaw reduces the number of the most probable pore sizes in ordinary concrete, and the pore size distribution curve tends to flatten. The reduction rate of the surface porosity of air-entrained concrete before and after rapid freeze–thaw is only about one third of that of ordinary concrete.

Automated ultrasonic scattering energy method for evaluation of small-sized cracking damage in concrete

The aim of this study was to develop an automatic ultrasonic scattering energy method (USEM) to evaluate small-scale damage to concrete. The automated system measured Leaky Rayleigh waves from the specimens. Herein, the energy of the scattering portion of waves caused by cracks was extracted using a 2D Fourier transform. USEM has the advantage of detecting cracking damage smaller than the applied ultrasonic wavelength, which is problematic when conventional ultrasonic methods are applied to concrete. The proposed methodology was evaluated using laboratory-scale specimens and a concrete bridge exposed to freeze–thaw cycles in the field. The results of the extracted scattering energy demonstrated that the USEM is sufficiently sensitive to detect and localize subwavelength damages of 0.05 mm in concrete. Furthermore, the proposed USEM was compared with conventional ultrasonic pulse velocity with respect to the accuracy of damage detection.

Development of hydrogels from cell wall of Aspergillus oryzae containing chitin-glucan and wet spinning to monofilaments

Fungal mycelium is emerging as a source for sustainable bio-based materials. Fungal biomass of Aspergillus oryzae was prepared by cultivation on bread waste hydrolysate to valorize this abundant food waste. Chitin-glucan-rich alkali-insoluble material (AIM) was isolated from fungal biomass, formed into hydrogels, and wet spun into monofilaments. AIM in the form of fungal microfibers containing 0.09 g polymer of glucosamine (GlcN)/g AIM was subjected to freeze–thaw and deacetylation treatments to increase the amount of GlcN. The GlcN fraction was 0.19 and 0.34 g polymer of GlcN/g AIM, for AIM subjected to deacetylation (AIM-DAC) and freeze–thaw cycles and deacetylation (AIM-FRTH-DAC), respectively. The increased GlcN fraction enabled the formation of hydrogels via the protonation of amino groups after the addition of lactic acid. Morphological differences in the hydrogels included aggregation of the fungal microfibers in the AIM-DAC hydrogel, whereas the microfibers in the AIM-FRTH-DAC hydrogel had a porous and interconnected network. Rheological assessment revealed shear thinning behavior and gel properties of the produced hydrogels. Wet spinning of the hydrogels resulted in monofilaments with tensile strengths of up to 70 MPa and 12 % elongation at break. This demonstrates promising avenues for biomaterial development from fungal cell walls containing chitin-glucan via food waste valorization.

Sustainable Pervious Concrete with Silica Fume as Cement Replacement: A Review

Pervious concrete is a unique type of concrete with high porosity that allows water to pass through. This characteristic makes it beneficial for various applications, such as stormwater management, groundwater recharge, and reduced heat island effect. However, pervious concrete typically requires more cement than conventional concrete because of its mix design. This increased cement content can be partially replaced with supplementary cementitious materials, such as silica fume. This review article investigates the influence of silica fume on the properties of pervious concrete, including the mechanical properties (compressive strength, splitting tensile strength, and flexural strength), durability (resistance to freeze–thaw cycles and abrasion), and environmental aspects. The article highlights that silica fume can improve the mechanical properties and durability of pervious concrete up to an optimal replacement level. The optimum replacement level of cement with silica fume was found to be 10%–15%. Beyond this level, the performance of pervious concrete decreases. The pervious concrete containing silica fume showed superior abrasion resistance and improved freeze–thaw resistance compared to conventional pervious concrete. In addition, incorporating silica fume in pervious concrete reduces cement usage, leading to a lower environmental impact and more sustainable construction practices. The article also analyzes the limitations of using silica fume, such as the potential for reduced workability because of its fine particle size. Overall, the review suggests that silica fume is a promising supplementary cementitious material for enhancing the performance and sustainability of pervious concrete.

An in situ and real-time analytical method for detection of freeze-thew cycles in tuna via IKnife rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry

Freezing is one of the most commonly used preservation methods for Bluefin tuna (Thunnus orientalis). However, repeated freezing and thawing would inevitably occur due to the temperature fluctuation, leading to the microstructure damage, lipid oxidation and protein integrity decline of tuna muscle without notable visual appearance change. In this study, we used a rapid evaporative ionization mass spectrometry (REIMS) technique for the real-time determination of the extent of repeated freezing and thawing cycles in tuna fillets. We found significant variance in the relative abundance of fatty acids between bluefin tuna and its fresh counterpart following freeze-thaw cycles. Meanwhile, the difference is statistically significant (p < 0.05). The quality of tuna remains largely unaffected by a single freeze-thaw cycle but significantly deteriorates after freeze-thaw cycles (freeze-thaw count ≥2), and the relative fatty acid content of the ionized aerosol analysis in the REIMS system positively correlated with the number of freeze-thaw cycles. Notably, palmitic acid (C 16:0, m/z 255.23), oleic acid (C 18:1, m/z 281.24), and docosahexaenoic acid (C 22:6, m/z 327.23) displayed the most pronounced changes within the spectrum of fatty acid groups.

Enhancing Durability of Concrete and Mortar with Ceramic Waste: A Comprehensive Review

The construction industry continually seeks sustainable materials to enhance the durability of structures while minimizing environmental impact. Ceramic waste, a by-product of the ceramic manufacturing process, presents a promising alternative. Traditionally used for tiles, sanitary ware, and bricks, ceramic materials are valued for their high strength, aesthetic appeal, and thermal insulation properties. The study indicates that ceramic waste enhances the durability of construction materials due to its inherent properties, such as low water absorption and high abrasion resistance. Additionally, utilizing ceramic waste addresses environmental concerns associated with landfill disposal, which include soil and water contamination, greenhouse gas emissions, and the depletion of landfill space. Incorporating ceramic waste into construction materials not only offers environmental benefits by reducing landfill waste and conserving natural resources but also provides economic advantages through cost-effective waste management and material production. This research explores the incorporation of ceramic waste into construction materials, emphasizing the enhanced durability properties like water absorption, Chloride test, UPV test, Electrical resistivity test, freezing and thawing test, drying shrinkage test and sulphate attack test of concrete and mortar mix while highlighting the dual benefits of improved material performance. The results of water absorption increases with ceramic amount increment, resistance to chloride ion rises to 20% replacement, drying shrinkage and electrical resistivity decreases with increase in amount of ceramic waste, freezing and thawing &amp; sulphate attack showed that ceramic waste material used as aggregate increases, mass loss reduces due to freezing and thawing cycles and the amount of ceramic waste material used increases, compressive strength increases up to a certain limit when immersion in sulphuric acid solution.

Numerical Study on the Axial Compression Behavior of Composite Columns with High-Strength Concrete-Filled Steel Tube and Honeycombed Steel Web Subjected to Freeze–Thaw Cycles

To investigate the axial compression behavior of composite columns with high-strength concrete-filled steel tube flanges and honeycombed steel web (STHHC) under load during freeze–thaw cycles, 48 full-scale composite column specimens were designed with different parameters: the restraint effect coefficient (ξ), concrete strength (fcu), number of freeze–thaw cycles (nd), slenderness ratio (λ), space–height ratio (s/hw), and hole–height ratio (d/hw). The finite element models of STHHC composite columns were simulated using ABAQUS finite element software (Version: 2021). The modeling method’s rationality was verified by comparing simulation results with experimental outcomes. Based on the finite element model, a parametric analysis of the composite columns under freeze–thaw cycles was conducted, analyzing their failure modes and load-bearing processes. The results indicate that the bearing capacity of the STHHC increased with increases in ξ and fcu, and decreased with a rise in λ. In contrast, the influence of s/hw and d/hw on the ultimate bearing capacity of the composite columns was relatively minor. An equation for calculating the axial bearing capacity of the STHHC composite columns under freeze–thaw cycles was derived using statistical regression methods and considering the impact of different parameters on the axial compressive performance of the composite columns, laying the foundation for the promotion and application of this type of composite column in practical engineering projects.

Monitoring ground temperature and deformation of the cast-in-place footings in permafrost regions on the Qinghai‒Tibet Plateau

The long-term stability of the cast-in-place footings in permafrost regions has received much attention due to its climate sensitivity. The current research lacks long-term data validation, especially in the context of climate change. Based on the 13-year (2011–2023) temperature and deformation monitoring data from the Qinghai‒Tibet Power Transmission Line, this study investigates the characteristics of permafrost variation and its impact on the stability of tower footings under the cooling effect from thermosyphons. The results reveal that the thermosyphons effectively reduce the ground temperature around the footings. After the first freeze‒thaw cycle, the soil around the tower footings completed refreezing and maintained a frozen state. In the following 13 years, the ground temperature continued to decrease due to the cooling effect of thermosyphons. The duration notably exceeded the previously predicted 5 years. The temperature reduction at the base of the footings corresponded well with the frost jacking of the tower footings and could be divided into three distinct phases. In phase 1, the ground temperature around the footings rapidly reduced, approaching that of the natural field, while the footings experienced pronounced deformation. In phase 2, the ground temperature decreased at a faster rate, and the deformation rate of the footings slowed down. In phase 3, the frost jacking of the footings gradually retarded with the decrease in base temperature. Additionally, the ground temperature differences of over 1 °C were observed among different tower footings, which may lead to the differential deformation among the tower footings. The ground temperature differentiation is attributed to the difference in solar radiation intensity, which is shaded by the tower structure from different directions. This study provides theoretical support and empirical accumulation for the construction and maintenance of tower footings in permafrost regions.

Design and Water Stability Evaluation of Cold Mix Emulsified Asphalt Mixture under Multiple Freeze–Thaw Cycles

Design and Water Stability Evaluation of Cold Mix Emulsified Asphalt Mixture under Multiple Freeze–Thaw Cycles

Mechanical Behavior of Frozen Soil Subjected to Freeze–Thaw Cycle Under Cyclic Impact Load and Passive Confining Pressure

In this study, the effects of freeze–thaw cycles and cyclic impacts on frozen soil were systematically investigated. With an increase in the number of freeze–thaw cycles, the peak stress of frozen soil decreased until a stable state was achieved. Moreover, subjecting frozen soil to an increased number of cyclic impacts led to notable alterations in mechanical characteristics, including peak stress, critical strain and dynamic elasticity modulus. Both the freeze–thaw cycles and cyclic impacts were identified as primary damage mechanisms in understanding frozen soil degradation processes. Damage resulting from these impacts conformed to the Weibull distribution pattern. Damages induced by freeze–thaw cycles, individual impacts and cyclic impacts were integrated into the Zhu–Wang–Tang viscoelastic model (ZWT model). Relying on principles of elastic mechanics, the role of confining pressure on frozen soil was examined and subsequently integrated into an improved ZWT model. To evaluate the model’s effectiveness, its predictions were compared with experimental results.

Basalt Fibers versus Plant Fibers: The Effect of Fiber-Reinforced Red Clay on Shear Strength and Thermophysical Properties under Freeze–Thaw Conditions

Freeze–thaw cycling has a significant impact on the energy utilization and stability of roadbed fill. Given the good performance of basalt fiber (BF) and plant fiber (PF), a series of indoor tests are conducted on fiber-reinforced red clay (RC) specimens to analyze the shear strength, thermophysical, and microstructural changes and damage mechanisms of the RC under the freeze–thaw cycle–BF coupling, meanwhile, comparing the improvement effect of PF. The results indicate that the RC cohesion (c) first increases and then decreases with the increasing fiber content under BF improvement, reaching the maximum value at the content of 2%, and the change in the internal friction angle (φ) is relatively small. As the number of freeze–thaw cycles increases, cohesion (c) first decreases and then gradually stabilizes. The thermal conductivity increases with increasing moisture content, and the thermal effusivity increases and then decreases with increasing moisture content and fiber content. The heat storage capacity reaches the optimum level at a moisture content of 22.5% and a fiber content of 1%. Microanalysis reveals that at 2% fiber content, a fiber network structure is initially formed, and the gripping effect is optimal. The shear strength of PF-improved soil is higher than that of BF at a fiber content of 4–6%, and the thermal conductivity is better than that of BF. At the same fiber content, the heat storage and insulation capacity of BF-improved soil is significantly higher than that of PF.

Effects of aging processes on spent mushroom Substrate-Derived Biochar: Adsorption characteristics of Cd(II) and Cr(VI)

To explore how chemical, physical and biological process impact the adsorption capacity of biochar for cations and anions, five kinds of spent mushroom substrate biochars including PB (carbonized Auricularia auricula substrate at 600 °C for 6 h), NB (Aged PB at 25 °C and 40 % moisture for 12 mon), AB (PB treated with 20 % mixed acid solution at 70 °C for 6 h), FB (PB subjected to 16 freeze–thaw cycles between − 20 °C and 25 °C) and MB (PB incubated with microbes from contaminated soil for 15 cycles) were prepared under simulated conditions, the internal mechanisms were revealed. Results showed that all aging processes caused a variation in crystal quantity and structure on different biochar. AB, NB and MB had higher hydrophilicity and polarity, and more positive charges than PB. Moreover, AB and MB had a higher cation exchange capacity (CEC) (70.7 and 75.3 cmol/kg) and more oxygen-containing functional groups than PB. MB has the maximum adsorption capacity for Cd(II) (24.2 mg/g), followed by PB (23.5 mg/g), FB (22.7 mg/g), NB (22.2 mg/g), and AB (22.0 mg/g). Langmuir model better described the Cd(II) adsorption onto NB, FB, and PB, while Freundlich better described AB and MB. As for Cr(VI), the maximum adsorption capacity followed the order: MB (24.1 mg/g) > AB (23.7 mg/g) > FB (23.5 mg/g) > PB (23.0 mg/g) > NB (22.7 mg/g). Langmuir model was better for Cr(VI) adsorption onto FB and PB, while Freundlich was better for AB, NB and MB. The pseudo-first-order kinetic model fits for Cd adsorption by FB，while the pseudo-second-order kinetic model fit for the adsorption of Cd and Cr by other biochars. The adsorption of Cr by all biochars was significantly related to the content of lactone group. Acidification and organic acids from microorganisms increased the pHPZC values of AB and MB, which was not conducive to the adsorption of Cd. The surface fragmentation of FB caused by the freezing and thawing process promoted its adsorption of Cd.

The Relation between Soil Moisture Phase Transitions and Soil Pore Structure under Freeze–Thaw Cycling

The process of soil moisture phase transitions (SMPT) under freeze–thaw cycling is considered a key factor driving changes in soil pore structure. However, there is still no consensus on which indicators related to SMPT affect the soil pore structure. The objectives of this study were to compare SMPT and soil pore characteristics under freeze–thaw cycling, and to analyze the inherent relationship between them as affected by different bulk densities. Hence, we employed thermal pulse time-domain reflection technology (T-TDR) and X-ray CT scanning technology (X-CT) to quantitatively study the process of SMPT and pore characteristics of soil core samples (60 mm diameter, 100 mm height) repacked with three different bulk density levels: 1.10 g·cm−3 (NC), 1.30 g·cm−3 (LC) and their combination (1.10 g·cm−3 for upper half, 1.30 g·cm−3 for lower half, SC) under freeze–thaw cycling. Our results showed that compared with NC, the porosity of LC’s 0–5 cm soil column decreased by 0.070 cm3·cm−3, the imaged porosity (ϕ&gt;60μm) decreased by 0.034 cm3·cm−3, and the maximum soil ice content (MIC) decreased by 0.030 cm3·cm−3. The pores within the range of 200−300 mm (ϕ2) and 300–400 mm (ϕ3) contribute the most significantly to ϕ&gt;60μm (50–60%). Soil initial moisture content (IMC) and MIC explained 50.1% of the change in ϕ2, and the bulk density explained 49.3% of the change in ϕ3. During the melting process, higher moisture content promotes the thaw collapse of soil particles, resulting in a decrease in ϕ&gt;60μm. The mean pore radius of the limiting layer (MRLL) and the hydraulic radius (HR) show that changes in bulk density from 1.10 g·cm−3 to 1.30 g·cm−3 do not have significant differences. Our results show the relationship between SMPT and pore structure change during freeze–thaw cycles as affected by initial soil bulk density and moisture condition.

Ceramic waste powder as a cement replacement in concrete paving blocks: mechanical properties and environmental assessment

ABSTRACT In the quest for eco-friendly alternatives to ordinary Portland cement, a material extensively used in the manufacture of concrete paving blocks, this study explores the potential of ceramic waste powder. Towards this, a parametric investigation is conducted into the effects of substituting cement with ceramic waste powder on the mechanical properties and durability performance of mass-produced pressed concrete blocks. The findings reveal that the incorporation of ceramic waste powder as a partial cement replacement can markedly enhance the strength and durability of the paving blocks. Specifically, mixtures, containing 20% and 30% ceramic waste powder, demonstrated an increase in compressive and tensile strength by 30% and 19%, respectively, compared to their control counterparts. In addition, the modified blocks exhibited a decrease in water absorption and weight loss after undergoing freezing and thawing cycles by 8% and 40%, respectively. A life cycle assessment corroborates the environmental viability of ceramic waste powder as a cement substitute, indicating reductions across all environmental impact categories, with notable improvements. This research paves the way for more sustainable solutions in pedestrian pavement construction, underscoring the potential of ceramic waste powder as a significant contributor to global sustainability efforts in the construction industry.

Fracture Mechanism and Damage Constitutive Model of Freeze–Thaw Fissured Granite Subjected to Fatigue Loading

The failure of rock in cold regions due to repeated freeze–thaw (F-T) cycles and periodic load-induced fatigue damage presents a significant challenge. This study investigates the evolution of the multi-scale structure of fractured granite under combined freeze–thaw (F-T) cycles and periodic loading and develops a constitutive damage model. The results indicate that after F-T cycles, network cracks develop around pre-existing cracks, accompanied by block-like spalling. After applying the fatigue load, the nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) T2 spectrum shifts to the right, significantly increasing the amplitude of the third peak. The freeze–thaw process induces a “liquid–solid” phase transition, weakening the original pore structure of the rocks and leading to meso-damage accumulation. The pores in fractured granite progressively enlarge and interconnect, reducing the rock’s load-bearing capacity and fatigue resistance. The combined effects of F-T cycles and periodic loading induce particle movement and alter fracture modes within the rock, subsequently affecting its macro-damage characteristics. The theoretical curves of the constitutive model align with the experimental data. The findings can serve as a theoretical reference for preventing and controlling engineering disasters in fractured rock masses in cold regions.

Assessment of the impact of whey protein hydrolysate on myofibrillar proteins in surimi during repeated freeze–thaw cycles: Quality enhancement and antifreeze potential

The quality of surimi, widely used in processed seafood, is compromised by freeze–thaw cycles, leading to protein denaturation and oxidative degradation. The objective of this study is to explore the effects of adding natural whey peptide hydrolysate (WPH) on the myofibrillar proteins of repeatedly freeze–thawed surimi. Results indicated surimi treated with 15% WPH exhibited only a 128% increase in surface hydrophobicity and a maximum peroxide value of 7.84 μg/kg, significantly lower than the control group. Additionally, salt-soluble protein content, emulsification activity, and stability decreased with the increase in freeze–thaw cycles. With a 15% WPH offering the most significant protective effect, evidenced by reductions of only 25.02%, 42.52% and 37.02% in salt-soluble protein content, emulsification activity, and stability, respectively. These outcomes demonstrate that WPH effectively reduces protein denaturation during repeated freeze–thaw processes. Future research should explore the molecular mechanisms underlying WPH's protective effects and evaluate their applicability in other food systems.

Investigation of the effects of biochar amendment on soil under freeze‒thaw cycles and the underlying mechanism

Biochar (BC) is widely utilized as a soil amendment; however, for widely distributed seasonally frozen soils, the effect of BC on soil and the optimal utilization of BC during the freeze‒thaw process are still unclear. In this study, the effects of freeze‒thaw aged biochar (FT-BC) and BC on soil properties and wheat cultivation were systematically investigated, and the underlying interaction mechanism between BC and soil was explored. The results show that FT-BC dramatically reduces the adverse effects of freeze‒thaw cycles on soil, enhances wheat growth, and increases dry matter yield by 17.5 %, which is mainly attributed to the ability of FT-BC to maintain soil structure, reduce water loss rates to below 0.20 g/h, and decrease nitrogen leaching by more than 20 % during freeze‒thaw cycles. Additionally, fresh BC had a greater effect on the fixation of cadmium than FT-BC in the soil, reducing its accumulation in wheat by 22.5 %. Multiple characterizations revealed that the freeze‒thaw process increased the porosity and specific surface area of FT-BC, providing more sites for water and nitrogen adsorption, whereas the dissolved organic matter released from fresh BC had a better ability to trap cadmium. These findings provide insights into the interactions between BC and soil components during the freeze‒thaw process and suggest the optimized utilization of fresh BC and FT-BC for different soil repair purposes.

Diagnosis and assessment of cyclic freeze–thaw damage in tunnel lining concrete using piezoelectric-based electromechanical impedance technique

Cold regional tunnel linings extensively suffer from severe cyclic freeze–thaw damage, which adversely influences their stability, durability and in-service safety. Consequently, the diagnosis and assessment of cyclic freeze–thaw damage in concrete linings have garnered worldwide attention. This study presents a pioneering effort in using the PZT-based electromechanical impedance (EMI) technique to monitor the evolving damage within lining concrete concurrently exposed to bending loads and freeze–thaw cycles. First of all, ultrasonic measurements and four-point bending tests were performed on cyclically freeze-thawed concrete specimens under two different bending loads. Both the degrading flexural strength and the diminishing ultrasonic wave velocity were measured. Particularly, the damage evolution was characterized by the flexural strength degradation ratio, which exponentially increased by 44.81% and 64.28% under two bending scenarios, respectively. Moreover, conductance signatures driven by two vibration modes (d31 and d33 modes) of embedded piezoelectric transducers were recorded, and both localized and overall variations in the signals were analyzed. It is concluded that both the resonant frequency shift and the statistic metric RMSD within the d31-dominated frequency range could accurately indicate the cyclic freeze–thaw damage of lining concrete. Their linear correlation coefficients with the damage variable reached 0.957 and 0.935, respectively. This research establishes a quantitative framework for monitoring the progressive damage of tunnel lining subjected to freeze–thaw cycling using the EMI technique and lays the groundwork for a broader range of future applications in structure damage diagnosis and assessment.

Experimental investigation on characteristics of strength recovery and pore structure of Jilin ball clay under freeze–thaw cycles

Freeze–thaw cycles are frequently overlooked as a pivotal factor contributing to leakage and structural failures in clayey soil-impermeable barriers used in landfills or tailings repositories in regions subject to seasonal freezing. This investigation explores the recovery and residual strength properties of Jilin ball clay undergoing six freeze–thaw cycles, and assesses the pore structure characteristics through a series of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) tests. The results indicate that normal stress has a greater impact on peak recovery strength than dry density and rest periods. Cohesion increases earlier and more significantly during rest periods compared to internal friction angle. Although the pore diameter remains consistent within the micropores during the freeze–thaw cycles, the soil’s structural integrity undergoes notable changes. The concluding analysis provides valuable insights for the construction and management of impermeable barriers in landfills or tailings repositories within seasonally frozen areas.