Spectral Element Simulation of Heavy Weight Deflectometer Test Including Layer Interface Conditions and Linear Viscoelastic Behaviour of Bituminous Materials
Résumé
The Heavy Weight Deflectometer (HWD) is the reference device for airfield pavement structural assessment. By the mean of a falling mass, a dynamic load is applied on the pavement. The load is assumed to be representative of a heavy aircraft at high speed; it lasts about 30 ms and can reach 300 kN. HWD test data analysis is based on a mechanical model which has to be as accurate as possible. In this framework, a Spectral Element Method (SEM) simulation is presented. This method takes into account dynamic effects, linear viscoelasticity of bituminous materials and pavement layer interface conditions. A special attention is paid to interface between the two upper asphalt layers which is considered as perfectly bonded, fully sliding or partially bonded. Different bonding qualities are simulated and analysed in terms of radial strains deflections. The HWD ability to detect delamination is also demonstrated. © Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2020.