Evaluating the effect of porous concrete pavement characteristics on beneath pavement layers

Abstract

The significance of the porous concrete pavement arises from the fact that it has the dual function of supporting traffic and stormwater management, in addition to many other characteristics such as minimizing noise and minimizing reflected heat. The goal of this study is to reveal more understanding of the stress-strain ratio of the porous concrete pavement and the layers beneath it. This process was done through two stages namely: laboratory stage by characterizing porous concrete mixtures (normal, and others sustainable mixtures comprised Reed Fly Ash and/or Silica Fume), and simulation stage by using a simulation program (ABAQUS) to identify the stress-strain induce an according traffic load within pavement layers. However, within the scope and materials used, the obtained results showed that the stresses within pavement layer are highly related to upper layer thickness, material types, and stiffness. Also, the main conclusion is demonstrated where there is optimum thickness (20 cm) of the porous concrete layer, which induces the minimum stress-strain in various layers of the pavement system.