Application of the portable pavement seismic analyser (PSPA) for pavement analysis

Abstract

Paper presented at the 26th Annual Southern African Transport Conference 9 - 12 July 2007 "The challenges of implementing policy?", CSIR International Convention Centre, Pretoria, South Africa. ABSTRACT:The Portable Seismic Pavement Analyser (PSPA) is a non-destructive device used for the evaluation of the seismic stiffness of a pavement structure. The device can be used to obtain basic information on the condition of the pavement structure, including parameters such as the seismic stiffness of the combined layers, indications of layer thicknesses and indications of an-isotropy in the pavement. When monitoring a pavement over a period of time, changes in the pavement structure can become visible. This information is useful in developing an understanding of the changes occurring in a pavement with increasing traffic loading. In this paper the concept behind the PSPA is discussed, followed by information on a study conducted for the Gauteng Department of Public Transport, Roads and Works (GDPTRW). Data were collected from a range of pavement types, including Long-Term Pavement Performance (LTPP) sections and Heavy Vehicle Simulator (HVS) test sites. The data are analysed for repeatability, variability, isotropy, and ranges of seismic stiffness values. Information is provided on the protocol developed for using the PSPA and finally some conclusions and recommendations are provided.