Full-scale model testing of a graded crushed stone sandwich structure within the ballastless track subgrade

Abstract

ABSTRACT This paper aims to analyse the static and dynamic characteristics of the sandwich structure consisted of an upper ballastless track structure layer, middle graded crushed stone interlayer, and lower foamed concrete subgrade layer, and clarifies its long-term dynamic stability. A full-scale test model of the sandwich structure being optimized was established, and then the static and dynamic loading tests were carried out. The results show that the use of foamed concrete as the subgrade filler can make the sandwich structure subgrade have better static stress and vibration diffusion effect compared with the traditional ballastless track subgrade. Under the loading conditions of this model test, the sandwich structure does not produce a resonance phenomenon when the loading frequency increases from 1 Hz to 10 Hz. And the sandwich structure has good vibration characteristics and long-term dynamic stability under cyclic loading. All these indicate that the graded crushed stone sandwich structure of the ballastless track foamed concrete subgrade can provide a smooth and long-term stable foundation for the line.