Pavements subjected to high volume load require a robust structure. In Brazil, cemented base layer is usually used instead of asphalt concrete thick layer due to cost issues. Soil-aggregate-cement (SAC) mixture is an alternative in pavement application, but the lack of design and dosage protocols hinders the understanding of the parameters influencing its mechanical behavior. This study presents a mechanical characterization of SAC mixtures in terms of strength (UCS and ITS) and stiffness (Mr), focusing on integrating the needs of pavement design to dosage purposes. For this, different SAC mixtures are produced, varying the soil-aggregate proportion (30:70 and 20:80) and cement content (3, 5 and 7 %). Mechanical properties were measured on cured mixtures at 0, 7 and 28 days and compared to structural responses of hypothetical pavements computed by mechanistic analysis. The results indicate a potential for using SAC mixtures in base layers due to their higher strength and stiffness. Predictive models relating ITS x UCS, Mr x UCS, and Mr x ITS with good statistical fit were proposed to assist researchers and engineers in selecting mixtures more adequate and durable for pavement applications, based on the concept of limiting the tensile stress acting on the cemented base course.
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