Comparison of temperature distributions in road pavement obtained in field tests and using transient thermal analysis

Abstract

The paper presents the results of comparative analyzes of temperature distributions in the pavement structure. The distributions were determined in field measurements and transient thermal analysis.The phenomenon of thermal conduction in a road pavement is described by the Fourier-Kirchhoff heat transfer equation. The temperature distribution was analyzed at several depths of the pavement structure. The results of calculations are presented in the form of temperature profiles and graphs of temperature variability. The heat transfer model applied in the qualitative aspect correctly shows the heat transfer in the pavement structure, however in quantitative terms it requires calibration to local climatic and material conditions. Knowledge of the temperature distribution in the pavement is very important for the design and mechanical analysis of pavement structure.