Abstract
The mechanistic design of a concrete block pavement (CBP) can be very complicated and often requires the use of computer programs. This paper presents a new mechanistic-empirical method, which is implemented in a computer program (DesignPave) that calculates base course/sub-base thicknesses for a range of design inputs such as traffic load, interlocking properties, and material stiffness. A range of virgin and recycled unbound granular materials were also experimentally tested to characterize them for possible use as base course or sub-base materials. Combining the new mechanistic-empirical method and the range of base course/sub-base course materials (virgin and recycled aggregates), it was found that while a CBP containing recycled aggregates did not offer a significant direct financial benefit based on the characteristics or material costs, the associated environmental benefits were very high.
Highlights
Segmental paving has been in use since the 18th century when stone setts quarried from granite, basalt, sandstone, or limestone were used in paving operations [1,2,3]
A major development in concrete block pavement (CBP) technology came in the mid-20th century in Europe when increased mechanization and automation in the production of concrete block pavements proved to be beneficial in terms of cost-effectiveness compared to the other form of segmental pavements
CBP differs from other forms of concrete pavement in that it comprises a layer of rigid paving blocks, which can be either pervious or impervious, laid either on a sand or fine-gravel bedding course [6]
Summary
Segmental paving has been in use since the 18th century when stone setts quarried from granite, basalt, sandstone, or limestone were used in paving operations [1,2,3]. A major development in concrete block pavement (CBP) technology came in the mid-20th century in Europe when increased mechanization and automation in the production of concrete block pavements proved to be beneficial in terms of cost-effectiveness compared to the other form of segmental pavements. This led to the adaptation of CBP technology in America, South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan [4]. A case study of a 7000 m2 area of CBP, which was designed using this new mechanistic-empirical method and constructed using a virgin base course in 2016, was evaluated for economic and environmental benefits with different grades of recycled aggregate. In terms of the sustainability of using different materials, a series of scenarios has been considered to investigate the effects of different parameters such as aggregate source (recycled/virgin) of the base course/sub-base material under specific traffic loads and subgrade strengths
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
