REFLECTION CRACKING: ANALYSES, LABORATORY STUDIES, AND DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

This paper provides a review of some of the recent developments in research on the problem of reflection cracking in overlay pavements. Included is an evaluation of the developments in the area of fracture mechanics since this is one area that can assist the engineers to make design decision relative to overlay design. Also discussed are results of other analytical approaches, particularly those using finite element method. A brief discussion is provided about two recent laboratory studies that were designed to evaluate some of the analytical procedures; and two design procedures for overlays that attempt to use the development to date are summarized. The paper makes some recommendations based on this evaluation as to the most promising short and long range activities which have the potential to assist the designer in mitigating the problem of reflection cracking.