Development of a novel vapor compression refrigeration system (VCRS) for permafrost cooling

To address the higher cooling requirement for embankments in permafrost regions, a novel active refrigerating method, which focuses on releasing permafrost heat in warm seasons, is presented. Based on the real situations in field, comparisons were made between thermally driven and electrically driven refrigeration methods in the roadway application. A prototype of the vapor compression refrigeration system (VCRS) was then designed and manufactured, and its practical performance experimentally investigated. The data shows that: (1) the refrigerating temperature can reach below 0 °C in warm seasons; (2) the heat reflux capacity and effective coefficient of performance is about 55.4 W and 0.41, respectively; (3) the predicted long term cooling scope is more than 6 m. The VCRS prototype can present good refrigerating performance in warm seasons. We conclude that the new structure is a potential method for preventing permafrost degradation and can ensure the long-term thermal stability of embankments under the effects of climate warming.