Simplified Approach for Structural Evaluation of Flexible Pavements at the Network Level

Currently, there are few available simple procedures to identify structurally weak pavement sections utilizing Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) data at the network level (e.g., city, state or province). A simple method is required to determine the structural condition of pavement sections that can be directly implemented and automated in current pavement databases. The objective of this research study is to develop a simple analysis method to determine the structural condition of pavement sections utilizing the currently available non-destructive testing (NDT) deflection measurement devices at the network level that can be directly implemented and automated in the database of a typical transportation agency. In addition, the study had conducted an advanced mechanistic analysis to mimic the FWD deflection bowl obtained from the field. The developed structural condition parameters can be easily implemented in pavement management systems (PMS). This will aid Departments of Transportation (DOTs) and local highway agencies to make more informed decisions about the most suitable maintenance and rehabilitation strategies. Those parameters were also utilized to predict the remaining fatigue lives of the studied pavement sections.Tran-SET Project No. 17PUTA0