Some design related aspects of flexible pavements

This article reviews the design and construction of flexible road pavement with arguments for reducing the thickness of pavement layers in the Indian context, and how this would also reduce the energy content of the pavement and time spent in construction. In flexible pavement, deformation is reflected from lower layers to the surface, so lower layers can use inferior material. The composition of the layers is described. Use of the California Bearing Ratio in design does not take into account quality of material but only thickness of layers and an alternate layer composition is proposed. Technological advances in compaction equipment make it possible to achieve desired density with fewer passes, and reduction of sub-grade thickness requires less compaction. Arguments against reduction include variation in elastic modulus, loss of strength in subgrade over time, and rising water. Counter arguments consider that the region is dry, embankments can be raised to prevent capillary rise in water, previous roads did not include a subgrade layer, new roads are made with greater quality control, and regular maintenance increases surface thickness. Cost of rolling is mentioned and energy content calculations are given.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/1790571
• Authors:
  • RAMANAJEE, M
• Publication Date: 2005-3

Language

• English

Media Info

• Pagination: 101-15
• Serial:
  • Indian Highways
  • Publisher: Indian Roads Congress
  • ISSN: 0376-7256

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: California bearing ratio; Compaction; Economics; Energy; Pavement design; Pavement layers; Road construction; Thickness
• Geographic Terms: India
• ITRD Terms: 3087: California bearing ratio; 3686: Compaction; 255: Economics; 213: Energy; 8045: India; 2952: Layer; 3055: Pavement design; 3665: Road construction; 5933: Thickness
• Subject Areas: Design; Economics; Energy; Highways; Pavements; I22: Design of Pavements, Railways and Guideways;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01045415
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Transport Research Laboratory
• Files: ITRD
• Created Date: Mar 30 2007 9:42AM