Anisotropic Response of an Asphalt Concrete Layer under Superheavy Vehicles: Field Measurements

Abstract

The analysis of the effect of superheavy trucks on flexible pavements depends on the ability to adequately model the mechanical response to these loads considering the magnitude and the unconventional configuration of the axles. The asymmetry of the load distribution can define conditions where stress states are critical outside the commonly used reference points. This paper presents the transverse and longitudinal strains measured in the field on an asphalt concrete layer under the action of superheavy load vehicles at a real scale. Pavement responses to two superheavy trucks were studied in summer and winter conditions and at different speeds. Based on field measurements, the trend of the cross anisotropy response of the asphalt concrete layer is presented.