Theoretical and field evaluation of interaction between ultra-thin whitetopping and existing asphalt pavement

Abstract

Ultra-thin concrete overlays or ultra-thin whitetopping (UTW), are an attractive alternative to traditional practices for the rehabilitation of asphalt pavements. However, it is widely accepted that the exiting pavement should have substantial stiffness to make a UTW a rehabilitation option. This paper re-examines this hypothesis using the performance results and structural evaluation of two experimental sections in Brazil. It is shown that structural contribution of the existing pavement is important for good performance of UTW. However, it appears that the ability of the existing pavement to ensure composite action of the individual slabs in the UTW is more important than its contribution to the flexural stiffness.

Keywords:

• Portland cement concrete
• Ultra-thin whitetopping
• Asphalt concrete
• Fatigue cracking

Acknowledgement

The authors appreciate the scholarship and the research funds granted by São Paulo State Foundation for Fostering Research that allowed the construction of the experimental site and the Ph.D. program of the first author.

Notes

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Additional information

Notes on contributors

Deividi Da S. Pereira

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Lev Khazanovich

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