Numerical model for to estimate effective module of rigid pavement support

Abstract

This article, aims to evaluate the influence of mechanical behavior of subbase and subgrade materials component in a concrete pavement, with the average surface modulus (effective modulus of soil reaction), employing a nume-ric simulation of plate load test. Several materials characteristics and thickness of subbase in both layers has been combined. First, an axial-symmetric numerical model is mathematic and fiscally calibrated, at a later time is validated with experimental measurements performed in an experimental road section. After, a parametric analysis of the factors affecting the improvement surface modulus is carried out from an experimental design that combines qualities of sub-base, subgrade module and subbase thickness. Finally, with the results of the experiment a mathematical model that relates these variables to the module on the surface and a nomograph to facilitate the work in the engineering practice are obtained.variables to the module on the surface and a nomograph to facilitate the work in the engineering practice are obtained.