Prediction of surface deformation in a full scale test pavement

Abstract

The mechano-lattice analysis method of analysis of pavements is based on elastoplastic behaviour of the multi-layered pavement wheras other methods of analysis usually utilise elastic behaviour. The method enables a study to be made of the build-up of residual stress and strain due to the variation of plastic behaviour between the various pavement layers. The authors describe the mechano-lattice analysis and then use the method to predict the performance of two thin crushed rock pavements. The resilient moduli and the permanent strain behaviour of the materials under repeated load triaxial testing are used as input. The resulting calculated rut depths, rebound deflections and transient longitudinal strains under load are compared with the field results after the passage of an estimated 250 000 equivalent standard axles.