Abstract: The mechanical characteristics of strata and shaft excavation schemes are systematically investigated under frozen conditions to address vertical shaft construction in complex aquifers. Representative lithologies are tested at −5℃, −10℃, −15 ℃ by direct shear, uniaxial compression, and thermal-property measurements to establish the temperature-dependent responses of strength, deformation, and thermal parameters. Results show that the uniaxial compressive strength of medium-grained sandstone increases from 13.48 MPa at room temperature to 32.28-40.48 MPa at −5 ℃ to −15 ℃, markedly enhancing load-bearing capacity. For most sandstones, thermal conductivity rises slightly （＜10%） as temperature decreases, whereas specific heat capacity declines marginally and remains comparable in magnitude. In unfrozen water-bearing sections, inflow reduces mudstone strength to about 3.53 MPa, indicating the need to adjust gripper-shoe settings and process organization. Based on the test results and engineering constraints, a coordinated scheme of “freezing modification and mechanized shaft sinking （dry muck removal in frozen sections）” is proposed. The systematic scheme incorporates a dual muck removal mode to reduce transition costs between sections, while ensuring the frozen wall satisfies the gripper load requirements of the shaft boring machine. These research findings provide the necessary technical parameters and methodological support for the safe and efficient construction of deep vertical shafts.