Analytical solution of multilayered structures with Green’s function

Abstract

It is well known that for solving the problem of thin multilayered structures in complex working conditions, the calculation accuracy and efficiency of the finite element method are significantly inferior to those of the analytical solution. However, the prediction of road life requires precise and detailed mechanical performance analysis. To satisfy this requirement, this study first utilized the three-dimensional Green’s function adapted to transversely isotropic multilayered structures with arbitrary thicknesses based on the mirroring image principle. Then, the analytical solution of multilayered pavements subjected to multiple loadings without complex integral or inverse transformations was derived. Furthermore, an equivalent sliding interface model was proposed to simulate the imperfect interface or thin interlayer of multilayered pavements. Numerical examples verified the suitability and accuracy of the analytical solution thorough the comparison with the other theory and experimental results. Moreover, the key factors affecting the performance of pavements, such as the anisotropy and thickness of each layer, loading direction, and pavement friction coefficient, were investigated to provide reliable numerical and theoretical bases for the optimal design of pavement structures.