Backcalculation of Elastic Moduli for Layered Media Based on Dynamic Deformation Analysis (Example of Highways)

Abstract

This article is dedicated to improving the method of backward calculation of elastic moduli for road pavement layers in a dynamic setting, which involves analyzing deformation characteristics in the time domain. To address this issue, a mathematical model of a layered half-space has been adapted to compute amplitude–time characteristics of deformation on the surface of the layered medium and to construct corresponding maxima of vertical displacements. Adjustments have been made to the design values of vertical displacements relative to recorded experimental displacements in field conditions. The correspondence between the final values of maximum vertical displacements, amplitude–time characteristics on the surface of the layered medium, and the shapes and areas of dynamic hysteresis loops on the surface of the investigated medium has been demonstrated, achieved by adjusting the design characteristics relative to the experimental data. For the first time in solving the problem of determining the mechanical parameters of layered media, dynamic hysteresis loops and the comparison of their design and experimental areas have been proposed as a criterion for the adequacy of the result achieved.