Chapter 8 - LCCA-based design method for asphalt pavement

Abstract

In this chapter, a new design method for asphalt pavement was established based on life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA). This method considers design factors, such as pavement structure, material properties, pavement performance, environmental impacts, and total costs over the life cycle. Structural behavior models for newly constructed pavement and overlaid pavement were employed in order to integrate the performance indicator into the design method. Performance-based design criteria were employed to optimize the design thickness, and to determine the optimal maintenance timing. Both the construction cost and the users’ cost, over the analysis period, were considered in the design method. Finally, a case study was provided in order to demonstrate the application of the new design method. The influence of the design criteria and cost components on the design results was systematically evaluated. The integration of LCCA into the asphalt pavement design method provides a new understanding of pavement design, and assists pavement designers in obtaining more economical and rational design strategies over the life cycle of pavement facilities.