Transportation Engineering Unit 1
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Subash YadavTransportation Engineering Unit 1
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Subash YadavUnit 1: Road Pavement
1.1 Definition, types, difference between flexible and rigid pavement
Pavement refers to the durable surface laid down on the ground to support vehicular or pedestrian
traffic. It serves to distribute loads from traffic over a larger area and protect the underlying layers
from damage. Pavements are primarily classified into two categories: flexible pavements and
rigid pavements.
Types of Pavement
1. Flexible Pavement:
o Definition: A flexible pavement is composed of several layers of materials that
deform or flex under the load. The load distribution occurs through the layers, and
it relies heavily on the subgrade for support.
o Structure:
▪ Surface layer (Asphalt)
▪ Base course
▪ Sub-base course
▪ Subgrade (natural ground)
o Materials: Flexible pavements are typically made using bituminous materials
(asphalt), aggregates, and granular base/sub-base materials.
o Example: Highways with asphalt surfaces.
2. Rigid Pavement:
o Definition: A rigid pavement is a pavement that spreads loads over a larger area
due to the high flexural strength of concrete. It is less dependent on the subgrade
for load-bearing.
o Structure:
▪ Surface layer (Concrete slab)
▪ Base course (optional, depending on design)
▪ Sub-base course
▪ Subgrade (natural ground)
o Materials: Concrete is the main material used in rigid pavements, often
reinforced with steel.
o Example: Airports, major highways with concrete surfaces.
Key Differences Between Flexible and Rigid Pavement
Criteria Flexible Pavement Rigid Pavement
Load By grain-to-grain contact of aggregates; Load is spread evenly due to the
Distribution load spreads downwards across layers flexural strength of the concrete slab
Material Asphalt (bitumen) is the main material Concrete is the main material
Layer Multi-layer system: surface, base, sub- Typically just a concrete slab, with
Composition base, and subgrade or without a base
Requires frequent maintenance and Less maintenance is required, more
Maintenance
resurfacing durable
Initial Cost Lower initial cost Higher initial cost
Shorter lifespan (10-20 years), depends Longer lifespan (20-40 years or
Lifespan
heavily on maintenance more)
Flexibility Flexible, can deform under heavy loads Rigid, does not deform under load
Repair Easy and quick to repair Repairs are difficult and expensive
Traffic Performs better under light and Suitable for heavy traffic and
Resistance moderate traffic industrial loads
1.2 Different layers in pavement structure and their functions, sub-grade, sub-base,
wearing course.
The pavement structure is composed of several layers, each with a specific function to support
and distribute traffic loads to the underlying ground while ensuring the surface remains durable
and safe. Below are the common layers found in pavement structures:
1. Sub-grade
• Definition: The sub-grade is the natural soil or improved ground on which the pavement
structure rests. It forms the foundation for all other pavement layers.
• Function:
o Provides support to the layers above by bearing the traffic loads.
o Acts as the bottom layer that must be strong enough to prevent excessive deformation
under load.
o Its stability and strength are crucial to the overall pavement performance. Poor sub-
grade conditions can cause premature failure of the pavement.
• Treatment: In some cases, the sub-grade may need to be stabilized with lime, cement, or other
materials to improve its load-bearing capacity.
2. Sub-base
• Definition: The sub-base layer lies between the sub-grade and the base course. It typically
consists of compacted aggregates or granular materials.
• Function:
o Provides additional load distribution, ensuring that the traffic load is evenly spread to
the sub-grade.
o Improves drainage by allowing water to pass through the layer, preventing water
accumulation within the pavement structure.
o Serves as a working platform for the construction of upper layers.
o Helps in frost protection in cold climates by reducing frost heave potential.
3. Base Course
• Definition: The base course is placed directly above the sub-base. It consists of crushed stones,
gravel, or treated materials such as asphalt or cement-bound materials.
• Function:
o The primary load-bearing layer in flexible pavements, distributing the traffic loads to the
sub-base and sub-grade.
o Provides structural support and strength to the pavement.
o In rigid pavements, it may not be necessary or may consist of a stabilized material for
additional strength.
o Acts as a buffer layer to reduce stress on the sub-base.
4. Surface Course (Wearing Course)
• Definition: The surface or wearing course is the topmost layer of the pavement, made from
materials like asphalt (for flexible pavements) or concrete (for rigid pavements).
• Function:
o Provides a smooth and safe surface for vehicles to travel on.
o Resists traffic wear and weather conditions like rain, heat, and freezing.
o Protects the underlying layers from water penetration and weather effects.
o Enhances skid resistance for vehicle safety.
o In flexible pavements, it absorbs traffic loads and transmits them to the base course.
Typical Pavement Structure in Flexible Pavement
1. Wearing Course (Surface Course): Asphalt layer that provides a smooth surface and protects the
pavement.
2. Base Course: Crushed stone or treated material layer that distributes loads.
3. Sub-base: A granular or aggregate layer that provides additional load distribution and drainage.
4. Sub-grade: The natural ground, which must be compact and stable.
Typical Pavement Structure in Rigid Pavement
1. Wearing Course (Surface Course): Concrete slab that distributes the load directly to the sub-
base and sub-grade.
2. Base Course (optional): A thin layer that may be present to assist in uniform load distribution.
3. Sub-base: Provides drainage and additional support.
4. Sub-grade: The ground layer that supports the pavement structure.