Abstract
Interlocking concrete block paving (ICBP) is one of the foremost construction methods used in most of the developing countries due to its economic benefits. Although it has emerged as a cost-effective paving material, it is yet being developing as a full-fledged construction technique. The aim of this study was to develop a finite element modelling (FEM) approach to determine optimum dimensions for concrete blocks and to evaluate the deflections and stresses induced in pavements with the application of loads. A three-dimensional FEM was built using the ANSYS FEM software to analyse pavements with different block shapes and laying patterns. Uni 3 block in a herringbone bond pattern induced the lowest deflections and stresses, and therefore the dimensions of Uni 3 block were considered as the optimum dimensions in this analysis. Based on that, a new block shape which incorporated the same behaviour was proposed. Angles 110° and 100° were recommended instead of 137° for the uni-style block shape. Furthermore, the stress and deflection distributions observed in the pavement for a change in the wheel wander indicated significant variations in the stresses when the wheel wander was closer to the pavement edge.
ORCID
Dhanushika Gunatilake http://orcid.org/0000-0001-6726-0024