An exploratory analysis of temperature distributions in PCC pavements: A simultaneous equations approach

Bonnie Mae Savage, Purdue University

Abstract

The accurate prediction of temperature profile distributions within concrete pavements is not yet reasonably within the grasp of concrete pavement engineers. This problem is of significant interest and has defied a complete and usable solution to date. The work herein explores the possibility of applying a simultaneous equations approach coupled with concepts from true environmental energy physics applications to produce a viable concrete temperature profile prediction methodology. Reasoning and functions behind the application choices of the 3SLS simultaneous equations methodology and the environmental energy balance concepts were discussed. Field data collection supporting model development was conducted and subsequently analyzed. Results revealed that the shape of the most prevalent PCC pavement profiles contained one or more changes in curvature throughout the height of the profile, negating previously held presumptions of simple linear or second degree curvatures. Profile shapes and related behaviors were explained in terms of commonly applied concepts found in the biophysics literature. Model variables were found by investigating a series of four different methodologies until the optimum combination of variables could be employed. Variables were evaluated through statistical measures and engineering judgment. Modeling results indicated that the proposed methodology produced temperature predictions throughout the profile height that were on average 97 percent correct. The exploratory analyses appear to have identified a method which is simple to employ, does not require expensive or detailed input and produces highly accurate results in a very timely manner.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Mannering, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Civil engineering|Statistics|Environmental science

COinS