Application of the new brazilian pavement design method (MeDiNa) in the design of flexible pavement structures using fine-grained tropical soils

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Publication Title
Application of the new brazilian pavement design method (MeDiNa) in the design of flexible pavement structures using fine-grained tropical soils

Abstract
This article discusses the utilization of MeDiNa, a novel Brazilian pavement design method, in the construction of flexible pavements using fine-grained tropical soils. In Brazil, the conventional pavement design relies on empirical equations that consider load applications, material attributes, and CBR assessments. MeDiNa, introduced in 2021 and named after Professor Jacques de Medina, incorporates principles of pavement mechanics and deformation interactions, employing the Elastic Analysis of Multiple Layers (AEMC) technique. The study concentrates on the analysis of fine-grained tropical soils from Pernambuco, Brazil, examining their properties. Various pavement configurations, traffic levels, and materials are assessed. The study demonstrates MeDiNa's capability to suggest cost-effective pavement structures with thinner layers, even when local materials possess low CBR values and fine granulometry. Results from 26 design simulations, encompassing variations in fatigue class, traffic levels, material types, and layer thicknesses, confirm MeDiNa's proficiency in recommending economical solutions. Both the percentage of cracked area and Wheel Tracking Rutting values consistently adhere to acceptable limits (30% and 10 mm, respectively), showcasing MeDiNa's ability to design enduring pavements. In conclusion, this research underscores MeDiNa as a significant advancement in pavement analysis, providing a more economical and efficient approach to pavement design by utilizing local resources and enhancing construction efficiency, thereby contributing to cost reduction in infrastructure projects and fostering sustainable development in the Brazilian context.
Authors
M. A. S. Sousa; R. Q. Coutinho; L. M. G. Motta; C. D. Castro

Published In

18th European Conference on Soil Mechanics and Geotechnical Engineering (ECSMGE2024)

Theme

A - New developments on structural design

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