Assessment of the vertical load applied to the pavement on pothole events by a commercial truck

Abstract

Given the importance of the road transportation and its correct maintenance, the assessment of the real loads applied to the pavement proved to be a relevant subject. On the basis of an experimental methodology and a statistical analysis, this work quantified and evaluated the vertical loads applied to the pavement by the wheels of a commercial vehicle during pothole events. As a first experimental approach, the main objective of this study is to investigate the isolated influence of the vehicle's speed and the pothole's depth on the vertical load. The results suggested that the pothole's depth is a parameter that directly influences the vertical load, while the vehicle's speed is more likely to impact in the contrasts at low velocities. Although further studies are necessary, the obtained results emphasise the importance of considering the loads imposed by transient events (such as potholes) on the project of pavement roads and heavy vehicles.