Characterization of transverse cracking spatial variability: use of long-term pavement performance data for continuously reinforced concrete pavement design.

Mechanistic-empirical design procedures for continuously reinforced concrete pavement (CRCP) require characterization of variations in major design parameters so that a new or rehabilitated pavement can be designed for a desired level of reliability. Transverse cracking is an important CRCP design parameter affecting the prediction of crack width, crack load transfer efficiency, and critical stresses leading to longitudinal cracking and punchout development. The primary focus of this study was to investigate spatial characteristics of transverse cracking occurring in CRCP and to develop a theoretical model that would provide a means for systematic characterization of transverse crack spacing variability along the pavement length. Long-term pavement performance distress data were utilized to analyze transverse crack spacing characteristics for CRCP sections. From the results of the field data analysis, a theoretical model utilizing a Weibull distribution was developed to characterize the along-the-section transverse crack spacing frequency distribution. This theoretical model could be incorporated into the mechanistic-empirical procedures for CRCP structural design. The relationship between transverse crack spacing characteristics and punchout development and the location of the longitudinal cracks, which are a punchout precursor, were also analyzed using field survey data. Conclusions derived from field data analysis and the theoretical model presented here will be of interest to practicing engineers and researchers involved in CRCP design and performance modeling.