Abstract: To study the mechanical properties and degradation mechanism of solidified silt undergone cyclic freezing and thawing,we analyzed the changes in deformation feature, internal friction angle, cohesive force, and compression features of solidified silt via unconfined compressive strength test, direct shear test and consolidation test. Results demonstrated that with the proceeding of cyclic freezing and thawing, the unconfined compressive strength, internal friction angle, cohesion, and compression yield pressure of solidified silt all degraded. After six cycles, the mechanical indexes of solidified silt reached a critical status and changed abruptly towards brittle failure. The research finding could offer scientific idea for preventing and controlling the degradation of solidified silt.

Key words: solidified silt, freeze-thaw cycle, deformation feature, unconfined compressive strength, shear strength