How do freezing and thawing contribute to creep?

Freezing and thawing contribute to creep by causing repeated cycles of expansion and contraction in materials, particularly in soils and rocks. When water within pores freezes, it expands, exerting pressure on the surrounding material; upon thawing, the material may not fully return to its original state. This process can lead to gradual deformation over time, as the repeated stress weakens the structural integrity and increases the likelihood of displacement or flow, especially in saturated conditions. Consequently, the cumulative effects of these freeze-thaw cycles can significantly enhance creep behavior in geotechnical and geological contexts.