This communication reviews the application of concrete paving blocks in trafficked areas and deals with their specific properties. First, the blocks themselves are considered in chapter 2, which successively deals with manufacture, the materials used, handling and transport, properties, types (rectangular and interlocking) and 'specials'. The report then goes on to present a number of considerations which may play a part in choosing block paving. The specific properties of such pavements are discussed, and potential applications are reviewed. This review is based on product properties, the structural requirements judged from the practical angle, and the relationship with the surroundings in which this type of paving is employed. Then, thirdly, chapter 4 is concerned with the design of pavements formed with concrete blocks. Attention is focused, inter alia, on the design principles, the behaviour of the pavement, the sand laying course and the sub-base, if any, with a laying course of sand or coarse grit. Furthermore, three construction types are described, and a number of important constructional details are examined. Fourthly, the last chapter gives some guidelines for specifications, and finally the execution of block paving work is briefly dealt with.
Abstract