The Influential Factors of Semi-Flexible Pavement Cracking Performance

Abstract

The cracking performance of semi-flexible pavement (SFP) was investigated by using the semi-circular bending (SCB) test in this paper. Thirteen grouting slurries were prepared. The compressive strength of these materials ranges from 3 to 100 MPa. The relationship between the compressive strength of the grouting slurry and the cracking property of SFP was obtained at different loading rates and different temperatures. The peak load, fracture energy (E), flexible index (FI), and cracking resistance index (CRI) were calculated to determine the material performance. The results show that the compressive strength of the grout influences the cracking behavior. With a higher comprehensive strength grouting slurry, the FI value of SFP decreased initially and then increased slightly at 25 °C in 50 mm/min. The CRI value decreased at the same time. E values changed just according to the test temperature and loading rate. The damage paths of SFP are different. The damage path of the SFP sample appears as diffuse damage at 1 mm/min at 60 °C or clean damage at 50 mm/min at 25 °C. These findings indicate that there is a correlation between the compressive strength of grouting slurry and SFP cracking behavior. The cracking form is influenced by loading rate and temperature.

Keywords

semi-flexible pavement / cracking performance / SCB / grouting slurry / compressive strength