On the characterization of flexible pavement rutting using creep model-based finite element analysis

A new approach for characterizing flexible pavement rutting using creep model-based finite element analysis (FEA) is presented in this paper. A matrix of FEA was carefully designed so that pavements with low and high traffic volumes, low and high rutting levels, and different structural layer thickness combinations were all included. Transverse wheel wander distribution and non-uniform tire contact stresses were used in modeling traffic loads. The effects of pavement shoulder conditions and high tire pressure were also examined. New criteria were developed for identifying pavement layer failures based on evaluation of transverse surface profiles. Good agreement was found between failures predicted by the criteria and field observations on 20 in-service pavements. Software tools were developed to facilitate the use of the new failure criteria. (C) 2004 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.