Multilayer elastic theory applied to stress-dependent materials for pavement response

ABSTRACT: The main objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of the Multi Layered Elasticity Theory (MLET) applied to pavement response in the presence of stress dependent materials. The resilient moduli of unbound layers are estimated by a generalized model with three parameters k1-k2-k3. The first part of the study deals with a homogeneous half space subjected a circular load with uniform pressure. In this phase an attempt has been made to evaluate only a single value of the (equivalent) modulus of elasticity that takes into account the stress state induced in the half space by a typical load and by the at-rest earth pressure. The second part of this study is centred on the analysis of the responses of traditional flexible pavements with the sub base layer characterized by non-linear behaviour. To this aim, an iterative method was used. Numerical results show that the response of sub base layers cannot be properly determined without taking into account the stress-dependent behaviour of the material.