Field Moisture Monitoring of Foundation Layers of Innovative Rigid Pavement Systems

Abstract

The structural capacity of pavement systems is highly influenced by the performance of the geomaterials which play a crucial role as supportive foundation layers. The behavior of geomaterials is one of the key parameters affecting the overall stability and service life of these systems. The unbound granular materials within the foundation layers are designed to remain unsaturated for most of their service life. However, it is a well-known fact that groundwater table variations, heavy rainfalls as a result of climatic change, and freeze-thaw cycles cause continuous cycles of moisture fluctuations. These changes have a significant impact on the pavement foundation layers, leading to altered behavior and performance. Therefore, the capability of monitoring foundation moisture levels and linking them to overall performance of pavement systems is of utmost importance to understand possible failure mechanisms considering the growing significance of asset management. Moisture monitoring tools such as volumetric water content and matric suction sensors are commonly used to observe moisture changes within the pavement foundation during the service life of pavement systems. In this study, moisture data (volumetric water content and matric suction) and weather data were collected from innovative rigid pavement test sections constructed in 2022 at the MnROAD facility. The study aims to evaluate the performance of moisture sensors installed with unique installation techniques, analyze the moisture states of the foundation layers under varying environmental conditions and its effects on early PCC pavement performance.