Validation of mechanistic-empirical pavement design approach for flexible pavement design

Abstract

Pavement design is a vital part of the highway industry. In recognition of the potential of analyzing pavements and predicting their performance, it is encouraged to adapt mechanistic-empirical methods over traditional empirical methods. Performance models used in mechanistic-empirical methods were derived in laboratories under controlled conditions. Therefore, validating performance models by accommodating real-time data obtained from in-service pavements are crucial. The aim of this research was to check the applicability of mechanistic-empirical performance models developed by the AUSTROADS pavement design guide. The mechanistic design software-CIRCLY based on the AUSTROADS pavement design guide was used for the data analysis. Cumulative damage factor, representing the total accumulated damage in the pavement, was compared with the pavement condition index, representing the in-service pavement condition. Pavement condition index values were calculated only for traffic load-related cracks assessed by type, severity, and density following the American Society for Testing and Materials-D6433. Results concluded that there is a significant relationship between cumulative damage factor and pavement condition index. It also justified the mechanistic design software-CIRCLY based on the AUSTROADS pavement design guide as a potential analytical tool for the design and analysis of flexible pavements efficiently and cost-effectively.