EFFECT OF TEMPERATURE GRADIENT IN CONCRETE SLAB ON BACKCALCULATED MODULI

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of temperature gradients within concrete slabs on the backcalculated moduli used for pavement evaluation. Employing Falling Weight Deflectometers (FWDs), tests were conducted at both the center and corner of a concrete slab over 24-hour cycles. Results show that temperature gradients significantly affect pavement deflection and, consequently, the structural evaluation of concrete pavement. Deflections were larger during the day when temperature differences were highest. Backcalculation methods were used to estimate layer moduli, revealing that the base course modulus varied significantly with temperature gradient, confirming slab curling. The study emphasizes the need for careful consideration of test location, time, and analysis techniques that account for temperature-induced deformations in concrete pavement evaluation. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)