Developments in rigid pavement response modeling

TL;DR: In this paper, closed-form solutions were derived for the maximum responses on the unloaded side of a rigid pavement slab edge capable of a degree of load transfer, when used together with Westergaard's own closedform equations for the free-edge problem.

Abstract: A rigid pavement system consists of a number of relatively thin finite slabs bounded by joint or edge discontinuities. The classical Westergaard theory has served as the basis for design and analysis for decades. Recently, elastic layer methods have emerged as a method of design for rigid pavements. The finite element method's ability to model joint and edge discontinuities has led to its emergence as the analysis method of choice for rigid pavements. Finite element programs reported in the literature for the response of jointed rigid pavements can be divided into two broad general categories: two-dimensional (2-D) medium thick plate programs and three-dimensional (3-D) general programs. In this report, closed-form solutions akin to those by Westergaard were derived for the maximum responses on the unloaded side of a rigid pavement slab edge capable of a degree of load transfer. When used together with Westergaard's own closed-form equations for the free-edge problem, the formulae derived in this study constitute a more complete solution of the edge load transfer problem. The literature review presented in this report confirms that a comprehensive model for analysis of jointed concrete pavement considering all the pavement components has not been developed. The slab-joint-foundation system for a rigid pavement is 3-D in nature; thus adequate representation of this system requires a 3-D approach. It is not likely that 3-D FE models will summarily replace classical techniques in the near future. However, several very important physical processes cannot be adequately modeled without the 3-D approach. Furthermore, recent developments in engineering mechanics are best suited for 3-D applications.