Prospects for the use of natural raw materials for temporary constructions in northern and arctic conditions

Abstract

The industrial development of the Arctic has increased interest in the use of the most common natural materials (snow and ice) for the construction of temporary buildings in northern regions. The technical characteristics of the snow and ice (strength, thermal conductivity) correspond to similar properties of other construction materials. These characteristics allow to use them in the Arctic conditions for a long period of time. We studied the strength characteristics of building blocks made from natural raw materials (snow), which are sufficient for the construction of temporary lowrise buildings (warehouses, garages, hangars, caponiers, etc.). The strength of frozen snow-water blocks is provided at 3.1–6.4 MPa, while heat content at 1.38 W/(m·°С). Full-scale tests of the externally reinforced snow blocks prove their sufficient strength for the construction of one-story buildings. Technological features of the blocks allow their production without specialized equipment. We determined technological modes for blocks forming, their thermophysical and strength characteristics. The units were tested for their resistance to the warming in spring. We also tested one-story building model (size 3×4,2×2,3 m). The results of both tests showed the possibility of widespread use of the technology in the North and the Arctic.