Performance assessment of pavement structure using dynamics cone penetrometer (DCP)

Abstract

Assessing the performance of existing pavement structures, is quite challenging. The repeated triaxial load tests on cylindrical specimens are routinely used to measure the resilient capacity of pavement. The resilient modulus (M_R) testing equipment, is not readily available in an in-situ setup as a result of the complexities of the test protocol. This study investigated the performance and causes of distress identified on existing highway along Eastern Nigeria (Enugu - Abakaliki–Ikom Highway Road). Series of dynamic cone penetration (DCP) tests were conducted and the results were analysed by AFCP-LVR software. California Bearing Ratio (CBR) and Resilient modulus tests were performed to investigate the causes of deterioration on this pavement structure. The results confirmed that the investigated pavement structure failed on the surface, as a result of excessive traffic loads from heavy trucks. The test results further revealed that the asphaltic layer is the only failed layer of the pavement structure. The investigate pavements were confirmed to be designed for low-volume traffics, according to CBR and M_R test results. The predicted CBR, and M_R values from AFCP-LVR software analysis, indicated average variations of 2.8%, and 3.6MPa, respectively compared to the laboratory measured values. This study revealed that excessive traffic load is the major cause of distress on the investigated pavement. The pavement analysis suggested that dynamic cone penetrometer is a suitable tool for assessing the resilient performance of substructures in pavement.