A full-scale pavement structural study for mechanistic-empirical pavement design

As pavement structural design continues to progress toward mechanistic-empirical (M-E) methodologies, local agencies will be called upon to develop some of the key inputs and models for M-E design. Local calibrations for environment, materials and traffic along with equations to link pavement response to field performance are critical to the successful introduction and adoption of M-E design. The structural study currently underway at the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) Test Track is an example of one such approach to develop the local calibrations and required equations for flexible pavements and can serve as a guide to others in the development of full-scale pavement testing facilities. There are many critical components that must be addressed in order to have a successful structural study including the design of the test sections, instrumentation selection, sensor installation, data collection and analysis. These issues are discussed in light of the NCAT Test Track to aid in the planning and execution of future structural experiments as local agencies continue to address the needs of M-E pavement design.