Analytical evaluation of the rutting critical response function under the heavy vehicle’s moving in flexible pavement

Abstract

Accurate and realistic identification of critical response of pavement structure leads to sustainable pavement structure design. This study aimed to obtain and analyse the rutting critical response function under heavy trucks using Abaqus three-dimensional finite element and particle swarm optimization (PSO) methods. For modeling, asphalt viscoelastic properties, data of the Weigh-In-Motion (WIM) device, and the Moving Load method were used to simulate trucks passing over the pavement. The thickness of pavement layers and their elastic and viscoelastic properties were calculated by field study and theoretical relationships, respectively. The truck specifications including loads, axles and wheels configurations, and dimensions were collected by WIM data and field survey. The results showed that the best statistical equation that could be fitted to critical responses was the modified Gaussian function. Also, according to analysis results, the effect of truck speed on the rutting critical responses was greater than its weight.