Structural Evaluation of Double-layer Precast Concrete Pavement by Wheel Loading Test and Analysis by 3DFEM

Abstract

As concrete pavements are hard to be repaired and replaced and their costs are higher than asphalt pavements, they are not much popular in Japan. Improving productivity in concrete pavement construction and maintenance can be achieved by utilizing precast concrete products more. The use of precast concrete panels for pavement is one of the solutions. A unique precast concrete pavement, Double-layer Precast Concrete Pavement (DPCP) has been developed in this study. This new technology consists of two layers of precast concrete panels arranged in staggered position. Since no joint connectors, such as dowels or cotters, for ensuring load transfer across joints are required, it is easy to be constructed and maintained. To investigate long-term performance of the DPCP, a test section was constructed on a circular accelerating pavement testing facility and subjected to a large number of moving truck axle loads. During the test, FWD tests were conducted at every 10,000 of 49kN equivalent single wheel loads (ESWL). Back-calculation of the FWD deflection revealed the existence of gap between the upper and lower panels at transverse joints. Structural analysis with three-dimensional finite element method (3DFEM), however, confirmed that small cracks in the panels due to the gap are properly controlled with rebars in the panels. Also, it was found that distressed panels can be easily replaced with new ones in the minimum works and less noise and vibration troubles.