Numerical investigations on the deformation behavior of concrete pavements

Abstract

In recent years, numerous cracks were observed in concrete pavements of federal highways (BAB) across Germany. These could be identified as the result of an alkali silica reaction (ASR). For this reason the main focus of this research project was to get a realistic view about the damaging processes in concrete pavements caused by an ASR in combination with thermal, hygric and mechanical loads by means of numerical investigations. In addition, the analyses should provide insights on how to better counteract the damage potential of ASR in the future. This paper will present selected results of comprehensive numerical investigations on the deformation behavior of concrete pavements exposed to various loads and possible failures resulting from these. © RILEM 2012.