Performance Prediction Models for Cracked, Seated, and Overlaid Concrete Pavements in California

Abstract

Crack, seat, and overlay (CS&O) is a rehabilitation technique used on jointed plain concrete pavements in California. Although CS&O is widely used, few studies have attempted to develop performance prediction models for pavements that have been rehabilitated with this technique. This study evaluated CS&O performance for surface roughness and transverse reflection cracking. Performance data for CS&O sections in three geographic regions in California were used to develop regression performance models. These models can be incorporated into the California Department of Transportation pavement management system and used to predict future performance, assist with life-cycle cost analyses, and optimize the allocation of resources. The results of a sensitivity analysis suggest that section age is the most significant factor affecting the deterioration of CS&O pavements. Secondary factors include the annual equivalent single-axle load and layer thickness ratio. Section age as an independent variable would include the impact of environmental loading cycles. Other factors related to subgrade conditions, temperature variations, and construction variability could not be investigated because data were not available. However, their impact is inherent to the models.