Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design for Minor Collector Streets Incorporating Cement-Treated Base Layers

Abstract

The objective of this work was to perform project-level studies of selected pavement segments in Springville City to develop new standard pavement designs based on appropriate traffic levels, material properties, and climatic conditions. Mechanistic-empirical (M-E) analyses were then performed to design new standard pavement structures for minor collector streets in Springville City. Because of the engineering, economic, and environmental benefits of re-using existing materials, full-depth reclamation in conjunction with cement stabilization was specifically considered. The results of the M-E analyses indicate that, as the asphalt and CTB layer thicknesses increase, the number of allowable equivalent single axle loads (ESALs) also increases. In addition, as the 7-day unconfined compressive strength (UCS) values increase, the number of allowable ESALs increases. Among the options, a 7-day UCS value of 500 psi may be preferred in many instances to allow the shallowest pavement designs with the least amount of asphalt, which would be expected to be the least expensive. The advanced M-E design process demonstrated in this study has broad application for developing standard pavement designs, especially those incorporating CTB layers, for other street classes and in other regions.