DYNAMIC ANALYSIS OF RIGID PAVEMENTS WITH DIFFERENT SUBGRADE SUPPORT MODELS

Abstract

It has long been recognized that the accuracy of any slab-on-grade model is strongly dependent on the foundation model used. Therefore, using an accurate structural model for the concrete slab system does not guarantee an accurate response for the slab-subgrade system. Thus, characterizing the subgrade support correctly is essential in order to obtain accurate predictions of the rigid pavement response. Most existing finite-element programs for rigid pavements use the Winkler model as the primary model for subgrade characterization. This paper describes the development of an expanded version of the DYNASLAB computer program with the addition of a frequency-dependent Winkler foundation and a layered foundation model. Using the new DYNASLAB program, several dynamic analyses were conducted to compare results from the two foundation models.