OPTIMIZED PERFORMANCE AT CONCRETE PAVEMENT JOINTS

Abstract

Results of an investigation conducted to develop improved performance at concrete pave­ment joints are presented in this paper. The investigation included development of a finite element analysis computer program, laboratory testing, and evaluation of techniques to improve structural response at joints. The computer program, Program JSLAB, can analyze a large number of jointed concrete slabs consist­ing of a one- or two-layer concrete pavement system resting on a Winkler (spring) founda­tion. Program JSLAB was used to evaluate the effect of the use of fewer nonuniformly spaced dowel bars, tied-concrete shoulders, and widened lanes on joint performance. Theoreti­cal analysis indicates that maximum deflections and stresses at a transverse joint with six or seven nonuniformly spaced dowels are similar to those for a conventional joint with twelve uniformly spaced dowels. No new load transfer devices (LTD) were developed as part of this study. After a review of various planted devices and a study of various LTD shapes, con­figurations, and placement requirements, it was concluded that solid round dowel bars are the most cost-effective mechanical load transfer developed for new construction.