Multichannel analysis of seismic waves for layer moduli evaluation of pavements

Results from the application of a new seismic technique for non-destructive testing of pavement layer moduli are presented. The method is based on the multichannel analysis of surface waves (MASW) method and multichannel simulation with one receiver (MSOR). The MSOR method uses one accelerometer (receiver), a light hammer (source), and a single-channel recording device to generate a simulated multichannel record in a fast and simple manner. In the case study presented, the dispersion curve of surface waves shows different branches associated with the layers of different stiffness. From an objective observation of branches, seismic velocities, and resonant frequencies we evaluate the total number of layers with different stiffness properties, the dynamic E-modulus, Poisson's ratio, and thickness of the top asphalt layers. We propose using this information in the back-calculation of Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) data