Finite element analysis of rigid pavement flexible context layer

Based on the application experience on semi-rigid base cement concrete pavement in our country,the existing pavement structure was improved by adding the flexible context layer,so as to improve stress state of semi-rigid base cement concrete pavement.With the finite element method,a 3D finite element model of cement concrete pavement structure with the flexible context layer was established.The mechanics features of the pavement structure layers in the conditions of different thicknesses and moduli of the context layer were discussed.The results show that the deformation of semi-rigid base decreases with the increasing of flexible context layer thickness but the deformation of pavement surface does not change significantly;the maximal tensile stress on the bottom of cement concrete slab decreases with the increasing of flexible context layer modulus,but tensile stresses on the bottom of semi-rigid base and the flexible context layer increase.Thereby these mechanics properties of the flexible context layer will provide theoretical basis for determining reasonable thickness and material parameters of the flexible context layer.8 figs,9 refs.