01333347

Component

The reasonableness of the models utilized internally by the Mechanistic-empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) to predict the performance of the continuously reinforced concrete pavements (CRCPs), was evaluated in this study through a comprehensive sensitivity analysis. This study focused on evaluating the punchout, crack width and spacing and load transfer efficiency (LTE) models through a factorial sensitivity study including variables such as Portland cement concrete (PCC) mechanical and thermal properties, CRCP design features, traffic and climate. The input matrix was defined in a way that each individual scenario would reflect a “real-world” design situation. While doing so, all the correlations and interactions between the parameters were also considered. Approximately 2,600 simulations of the MEPDG revealed that all the models were sensitive to the base type and the longitudinal steel content. The punchout and crack spacing prediction models were also sensitive to the PCC mixture. The interactions between the predicted distress and the performance indicators were investigated in regards to these significant variables. As a result, it was found out that, in contrary to the 1993 AASHTO Design Guide, the crack width must be below 0.02 in (0.5 mm) to maintain adequate performance. Additionally, based on the performance prediction equations within the MEPDG, the crack spacing should be less than 6 ft (1.8 m) to help ensure a crack width of less than 0.02 in (0.5 mm). This is another contradiction with the approach used by the 1993 Guide (the crack spacing is designed to be between 3.5 and 8 ft [1.0 and 2.4 m]).

01329018

11-2611

English

18p

2011

Transportation Research Board 90th Annual Meeting

DVD

Figures (10) ; References (10) ; Tables (6)

Admixtures; Continuously reinforced concrete pavements; Cracking; Load transfer; Pavement design; Sensitivity analysis; Traffic loads

Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide

Highways; Pavements; I22: Design of Pavements, Railways and Guideways

Transportation Research Board Annual Meeting 2011 Paper #11-2611

TRIS, TRB

Feb 17 2011 6:13PM