Abstract:
A high load transfer efficiency (LTE) across the joints and cracks is critical for the performance of a concrete pavement. An important factor affecting the LTE of joints and cracks is the aggregate interlock mechanism. This mechanism is controlled by the crack width and the surface texture of the cracked face. This surface texture is influenced by concrete properties such as water-to-cement ratio and coarse aggregate characteristics.
The objective of this study was to develop a relationship between key concrete mixture properties and the surface texture of the cracked faces. The surface texture of different concrete mixtures was quantified in the laboratory using a method called Volumetric Surface Texture (VST) test. These results were supplemented with laboratory and field data from previous studies, and a regression analysis was performed. As a result, an empirical model relating the critical concrete properties and the surface texture of the transverse joints/cracks was created.