Submitted by Prof. D. Cebon on Sat, 18/02/2012 - 22:48
Will Goodrum's PhD dissertation 'Whole-life modelling of full-depth asphalt pavements' has been approved by the University.
The thesis investigated permanent deformation of asphalt pavements caused by dynamic loading of heavy vehicles. The work was sponsored by the New South Wales Road Traffic Authority (RTA).
Summary
Modifications to heavy vehicle weights and dimensions policy in Australia have allowed certain vehicle configurations to operate at Higher Mass Limits (HML), in order to increase their productivity. To take advantage of HML allowances, vehicles must be equipped with 'road-friendly' suspensions. The road damaging potential of the vehicle must also be estimated using a formula based on the number of Equivalent Standard Axle Loads (ESALs) they apply to the pavement.
This dissertation outlines the development of a Whole-Life Pavement Performance Modelling (WLPPM) calculation to study the effects of HML and damper function on the maintenance costs of full-depth (>200mm) asphalt pavements. This calculation synthesizes dynamic vehicle and pavement response models, allowing the investigation of the interaction between vehicle factors and pavement damage.