A 2D Moving Mesh Finite Element Analysis of Heat Transfer in Arctic Soils

Accurate soil heat transfer models are needed to predict and adapt a warming arctic. A numerical model accurately temperatures thaw depths in soils, both with depth horizontal distance from features such as cliffs, was developed Matlab using the finite element method. The validated against analytical solutions simple versions of problem experimental temperature data borehole thermistor strings on north shore Alaska. current is most useful for short term (on order days) predictions near surface homogeneous soils existing allow calibration thermal parameters. These exactly time scales capabilities that would integrate well erosional erosion during storm events summer conditions. Comparisons show be fairly accurate thaw-depth temperatures, within about 0.25 °C 0.02 m respectively, reasonable arctic Differences between predicted Barter Island, Alaska 1 0.5 respectively. Comparison commercial software, which does not directly track move phase change boundary, shows this moving-mesh has much better agreement. work flexible can modified wide variety problems, but efficiently set up take thaw-boundary profile (not necessarily horizontal) use parameters boundary conditions appropriate Arctic regions. It been verified appropriately particularly vulnerable erosion.