STRUCTURAL EVALUATION OF HIGHWAY AND AIRFIELD PCC PAVEMENTS USING THE FALLING WEIGHT DEFLECTOMETER

Abstract

This scientific article presents an in-depth evaluation of the structural properties of Portland Cement Concrete (PCC) pavements, utilizing the Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) for non-destructive, in-situ testing. The methodology involves measuring the elastic moduli of both the concrete and underlying foundation, crucial for assessing the pavement's load-bearing capacity and integrity at various points, including joints and corners. This is achieved by analyzing deflection basins with the aid of computer software designed to back-calculate these properties considering the non-linear behavior of the foundation support. The paper outlines the FWD testing procedure and the theoretical frameworks used, including Westergaard's equations for joint and corner analysis and the Method of Equivalent Thicknesses for layer analysis. The importance of accurately determining the foundation support quality at joints and corners and the effectiveness of load transfer across them is emphasized, as these factors significantly influence the pavement's performance and durability. Practical examples and empirical relationships are discussed, linking mechanistic material properties with actual pavement performance to aid in maintenance and rehabilitation decisions. The study underscores the value of FWD data in predicting future pavement conditions, thereby facilitating more informed and cost-effective infrastructure management practices. Overall, this research contributes to the advancement of pavement evaluation techniques, offering valuable insights into the fundamental structural properties of PCC pavements and their practical implications for pavement management systems. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)