Performance evaluation of inverted pavements : comparative analysis of South African and Brazilian experiences

Abstract

The technical and economic feasibility of an inverted pavement has been proven abroad and in Brazil, but there are still doubts relating to the parameters that may affect the performance of this type of pavement, particularly in Brazil. There is a lack of studies that identify and characterize the variables that are directly related to the structural behaviour of the cement-treated layer and the contribution of each layer (thickness and elastic modulus) to inverted pavement performance as a whole. Furthermore, the main Brazilian specifications allow designers to make most decisions based on their experience, often generating doubts and uncertainties ranging from the design of the structure to the execution of quality control, directly reflecting on the pavement’s service life. Two test sections designed as inverted pavements, which were evaluated in Brazil, are assessed to identify and characterize the variables directly related to the structural behaviour of inverted pavements. In addition, a comparative analysis of the design, materials, construction, and quality control methods for Brazilian and South African inverted pavements is assessed. Both test sections were built based on the same design principles, but have been presented through different structural performances since their implementation in 2001. Each test section was monitored with deflection measurements between 2003 and 2016. In 2017, two inspection pits were opened in each test section. Samples were collected from all layers, and sent to the laboratory. Additionally, the tests carried out in the laboratory and in-situ in both sections during their construction in 2001, requested in the quality control, were also analysed in this study. The test results from the quality control and the test results obtained exclusively for this study (alongside the available literature) were compared and analysed against each other. Based on the analyses and discussions carried out throughout this research, it is possible to conclude that both the thickness and elastic modulus variables of the unbound base and the cement-treated layer played the most important roles in the behaviour of the inverted pavement, besides the support provided to the cement-treated layer by the underlying layer. Furthermore, the difference in the behaviour of both test sections can be linked to these three variables in addition to the constructive techniques adopted. No direct correlations were found for obtaining resilient modulus through CBR, and obtaining CBR values through DCP tests may vary according to the type of soil. The back-calculated modulus are good and reliable indicators of resistance, however, it is essential to apply adjustment factors. Furthermore, it was possible to identify a linear function with R² = 0.845, where ITS varies as a function of USC, according to the tests result carried out in 2001. However, unfortunately, no satisfactory correlations were found between UCS and ITS, UCS and ft, and ITS and ft from the results obtained in 2017. It is possible that these results are due to the specimens being damaged.