Mechanistic based pavement design procedures require validated mathematical models and calibrated transfer functions. The transfer functions can be calibrated only by observing the performance of pavements over time. The mathematical models can be calibrated by comparing the fundamental pavement responses to load and climate with the responses predicted by mathematical models. Two instrumented pavement sections are described that were constructed in illinois to validate the mathematical models used in the development of a mechanistic based pavement design procedure for jointed concrete pavements. The type and location of gauges and the material properties and testing procedures used are detailed. Typical results and the significance of results with respect to the analysis models used and the design procedure developed using the models are presented. Effects of bondingbetween the slab and the lean concrete subbase and the implicationsof tied portland cement concrete shoulders are demonstrated. Effects of temperature changes are shown to be a major factor in the responses of the pavements. This paper appears in transportation researchrecord no. 1286, Design and evaluation of rigid and flexible pavements 1990.
Abstract