摘要: |
The primary objective of this research was to identify existing historical data (i.e., climate, traffic, pavement design information, material properties, and pavement performance) within the SCDOT for use in the local calibration of the Mechanistic Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) for South Carolina. Based on all of the compiled information, 20 in-service pavement sections (i.e., 14 asphalt concrete (AC) sections and 6 Portland cement concrete (PCC) sections) were identified as suitable for this study, and information gaps were identified. A comprehensive subgrade sampling and testing plan was developed, and field and laboratory tests were performed to study the subgrade modulus at 3 sites. The data collected for the 20 sections was used to perform a preliminary analysis of the MEPDG AC rutting models, AC fatigue cracking models, AC transverse cracking model, and the JPCP transverse cracking model. Level 1 (project specific), Level 2 (region specific), or Level 3 (default) inputs were used, depending on data availability. The preliminary calibration factors found from the analysis should not be used for design until further studies are performed. A plan for future phases, including the additional high priority, high quality data needed to complete the MEPDG analysis for the local calibration and a plan for special pavement test sections, is proposed. |