Impact of base type on performance of rigid pavement: a case study

Abstract

ABSTRACT Base layer stiffness, durability, permeability, and constructability are all significant factors that influence the performance of a concrete pavement system. The interaction between a concrete pavement and the underlying base layer(s) affects the response, including the distribution of stress, strain and deflection, of the pavement system to traffic loads and environmental conditions. Subbase stiffness is also a significant influence on crack initiation in the PCC slabs. To verify these findings, a field investigation experiment was conducted on Interstate 90 in New York to compare the performance of two Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) sections, one with the NY Standard pavement design using Portland Cement Concrete on top of Cement Treated Permeable Base (CTPB), and the other with an alternate design using PCC on top of Dense Graded Aggregated Base (DGAB). Data collected from the two sections were compared, in particular the deflections due to temperature fluctuations and responses to Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) testing. The subgrade moisture content for both sections was similar. The DGAB sections provided equal if not better support for the PCC pavement which would result in longer-lasting pavement sections with lower construction and ownership costs than more expensive CTPB.