Engineering geological characteristics and processes of permafrost along the Qinghai–Xizang (Tibet) Highway

Engineering geological problems of thaw-settlement and frost-heave occur frequently along the Qinghai–Xizang (Tibet) Highway (QXH) line and produce an adverse impact on roadbed stability. Eight monitoring sites were established along the QXH to investigate the engineering geological characteristics and environmental process of permafrost, including the upper and lower boundary of the active layer under the natural surface, the seasonal freeze–thaw depth under the asphalt pavement, the permafrost table temperature and roadbed stability. The investigation results show that the active layer thickness and permafrost table temperature under an asphalt pavement are higher than under a natural surface due to the absorption heat and reduced evaporation capability of the asphalt pavement. The implication for highway design and construction in permafrost areas are discussed.