Optimizing Vibration Parameters of Thick Single-Layer Concrete Pavements: Results of the Belgian Monocrete Project

Abstract

Thick single-layer concrete pavements are increasingly popular in Europe because they help tackle the increasing traffic loads on highways, airport taxiways, or industrial logistic platforms. They require less maintenance than other pavement materials, have a very long service life even under heavy loads, and can withstand static loads without permanent deformation. However, the environmental impact of such pavements is significant, due to the vast quantities of cement and inert materials required for each project.

The MONOCRETE research project (March 2021-March 2024), funded by the Walloon GreenWin innovation cluster, brings together industrial partners (Eloy and Holcim) as well as research institutions (BRRC, CRIC-OCCN, and ULiège) with the aim of reducing this environmental impact by incorporating recycled concrete aggregates and an alternative, low-carbon cement. The environmental relevance of the proposed solutions is evaluated by means of a life-cycle assessment carried out for each of the variants tested. In addition to issues relating to concrete sustainability, a second aspect of the project studies the formulation and execution of thick concrete pavements. Indeed, a greater thickness will accentuate any compaction or vibration problem associated with a poor particle size distribution. The risk of bleeding or segregation is therefore increased.

These issues are being studied through a combination of literature review, laboratory testing, and the execution of two test sections, implemented in fall 2022 and spring 2023. In this paper, we aim to summarize the main conclusions of this recent project.