Abstract:
Westergaard’s theory is usually used for the computation of single wheel load and temperature gradient in concrete pavements. While wheel load stresses are found to be generally correct for interior and edge loading conditions, equations for temperature stresses are valid for linear temperature gradient. The algebraic addition of wheel load and temperature stresses computed using Westergaard’s approach does not give correct values of stresses because superposition principle is not valid in such cases because of loss of contact between the slab and the foundation during curling. IRC 58: 2002 design charts are developed using IITRIGID program which is based on Westergaard’s basic approach. IRC 58: 2011 and IRC 58: 2015 design charts are developed using DOS-based KGPSLAB software which uses finite element analysis with the assumption that the Dry Lean Concrete (DLC), a very stiff support, does not have any shear strength and it acts as a Winkler foundation which is not a strictly correct assumption. The present work presents a new approach for the analysis of stresses in concrete pavements resting on DLC with a bond breaking layer of the plastic sheet at the interface. The two-layer pavement rests on a Winkler foundation. Stresses are computed both in pavement concrete and DLC for practical cases by three-dimensional finite element using ANSYS software. The stresses in PQC are not much different from those reported in IRC: 58-2015.
Contributors: Swarna, S. T., Reddy, M. A., & Pandey, B. B.
Link(s) for the Article: Journal Website | ResearchGate