Pavement growth and blow-up analysis model for jointed concrete pavement

Blow-ups in concrete pavements result from excessive compressive stress caused by thermal expansion. High pavement temperatures can close contraction joints, causing slabs to expand as a single unit. This pavement growth generates compressive stress from base friction. When expansion joints cannot accommodate the expansion, additional stress from end restraints can lead to blow-ups. Previously methods, such as mathematical models and finite element analysis, have difficulty in challenges in accurately predicting blow-up timing and location. The Pavement Growth and Blow-Up Analysis (PGBA) model addresses these limitations by considering climate, pavement structure, materials, expansion joints. It can calculate the maximum internal temperature of concrete and the trigger temperature for pavement growth (TTPG), the point where contraction joints within an expansion joint close, causing slabs to act as a single unit. The model then estimates pavement growth and annual maximum compressive stress due to friction and end restraints. If this stress exceeds the threshold stress of blowup, the model predicts a blow-up. The PGBA model was applied to sections of jointed concrete pavements in the United States, South Korea, and England, where blow-ups had occurred. Predictions closely matched field observations, confirming the model's reliability. The PGBA model offers an effective tool for predicting blow-ups and developing maintenance strategies for jointed concrete pavements at the network level.