Finite Element Studies of Asphalt Concrete Pavement Reinforced with Geogrid

Abstract

Many geotechnical applications are becoming more sophisticated and solutions derived from simplistic procedure are no longer reasonable or solutions do not exist. This paper describes two-dimensional finite element studies that analyzed the behavior of reinforced asphalt pavement under plane strain conditions and subject to monotonic loading. The asphalt material and soils were expressed using triangular elements of elastoplastic behavior that obeys Mohr–Coulomb criteria with associated and nonassociated flow rules. The geogrid was modeled using a one-dimensional linear elastic bar element. The finite element procedure was validated by comparing the results of analysis with the results obtained from a series of model tests. The load–settlement relationships, settlement profile, and strains in the geogrid were compared. The failure load obtained by assuming subgrade foundation with nonassociated flow rule was smaller than that of associated flow rule. There was only minor difference between the results obtained from the associated and nonassociated plastic models. The finite element procedure was capable of determining most measured quantities satisfactorily except the tensile strain in the geogrid, which was assumed linear elastic. The effects of the stiffness of geogrid reinforcement, thickness of asphalt layer, and strength of subgrade foundation were also investigated. The finite element procedure is a versatile tool for enhanced design of reinforced pavement systems.