Freeze-thaw damage differences in saturated limestone: Macro-meso-micro response and mechanism driven by initial properties

Key Points

• Freeze-thaw damage varies significantly with different initial properties in saturated limestone, driving macro, meso, and micro responses.
• The most notable difference observed was in the micro response, which highlights how initial characteristics can greatly influence material behavior.
• Analysis involved comparing the macro, meso, and micro responses of saturated limestone subjected to freeze-thaw cycles under various conditions.
• Understanding these mechanisms supports improved material selection and treatment approaches in construction and geotechnical applications.