Dynamic Response in ALF Aggregate Base Asphalt Pavement

Abstract

In order to evaluate pavement dynamic responses accurately under truck loading, the full-scale asphalt pavement accelerated loading facility (ALF) was used. 10 strain gauges and 2 soil pressure cells were installed; temperature sensors were also installed in the different depth of the HMA layer. Pavement response was measured under real traffic load with ALF. The measured pavement responses are compared between the pavement sections to evaluate the effects of various experimental factors, such as axle load, speed, et al. Dynamic strain at the bottom of HMA layer and vertical compressive stress on the top of the subgrade were examined in the full-scale testing road, the regression models between dynamic response and axle load, dynamic response and speed were put forward respectively. Studies show that there is not only tensile strain but also compressive strain in the dynamic response, and the strain response is in the station of tension and compression alternation. Under the intermediate temperature, the strain response at the bottom of the asphalt layer is increased linearly with the increase of axle load and the vertical compressive stresses at the top of the subgrade is also increased with the increase of axle load. Speed has a great effect on strain response at the bottom of HMA layer, and has little effect on vertical compressive stress, it affects the loading duration of stress only. The destroy for the pavement by low speed and heavy load is more serious than that is normal.