Deflection Response Models for Cracked Rigid Pavements

Abstract

The static elastic layer model is customarily used for analyzing deflection measurements and back-calculating pavement layer moduli. Estimation of in-situ layer moduli by means of a mechanistically based iterative technique is known as back-calculation. Despite the fact that the falling weight deflectometer (FWD) load induces a dynamic load, dynamic/impact analysis routines are seldom, because of the mathematical complexity. Dynamic deflection prediction models are developed in this study, which can be used in back-calculation routines. The first step in accomplishing this is to select an appropriate analysis model for which ABAQUS—a general purpose finite-element program—is used. Static and dynamic deflection responses from the ABAQUS model of an uncracked pavement are validated. Following this first step, cracks and joints along with other features of the pavement are modeled in addition to nonlinear behavior of pavement materials. Deflection responses of cracked pavement under a series of increasing loads, assuming linear and nonlinear behavior of base, subbase, and subgrade materials, are computed and compared. After finalizing the model, a synthetic deflection database, specifically with FWD load, is developed relying on a fractional factorial design layout in which thicknesses, layer moduli, and cracks are allowed to vary over a range. Making use of this database, regression equations that predict surface deflection bowls in terms of layer moduli and thicknesses are developed. Deflection equations are validated using field data from two in-service pavements.