COMBATTING CONCRETE PAVEMENT SLAB PUMPING STATE OF THE ART AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Abstract

This article presents a comprehensive overview and recommendations for combating concrete pavement slab pumping, drawing on the collaborative efforts of the PIARC Technical Committee on Concrete Roads. The synthesis, derived from international seminars and operational experiences, focuses on optimizing drainage and using low-erodability materials to enhance the longevity and performance of concrete pavements. Key recommendations include implementing effective drainage systems at the slab-subbase-shoulder interface, selecting materials with minimal erodability to prevent cavity formation, and employing waterproofing techniques. The classification of constructional arrangements and materials based on drainage efficiency and erodability offers a framework for designing durable pavements. The article also emphasizes the importance of maintenance and innovation in hydraulic function to prevent water infiltration and ensure structural integrity. Through detailed observations and case studies, including the significant improvement in service life on Autoroute A1 and the drainage efficiency on A6, the paper advocates for a balanced approach that integrates mechanical and hydraulic considerations. The need for international collaboration and shared research to refine and implement these recommendations is highlighted, with the goal of achieving sustainable and resilient concrete pavement infrastructures. (Abstract generated by AI tool ChatGPT 4)