Toward Implementation of the Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide in Latin America

The Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) and MEPDG software are tools that provide more rational pavement designs than previous guides. The application of the mechanistic–empirical method, however, requires careful consideration of the input data and proper calibration to local conditions. Since 2004, several efforts have been made in Chile to study implementation of MEPDG in that country. The work has included obtaining local input data (axle load distributions, weather, and material characteristics), calibration efforts for distress prediction, and comparison of pavement designs by using MEPDG and the local design method. Axle load distributions were obtained for three important highways in the most populated area in the country. Statistical analysis was performed to compare the default load spectra from MEPDG with the local spectra. Significant differences were observed. Weather information was obtained for six cities that represent broadly the different weather conditions in the country. Master curves were developed for Level 2 design on the basis of the aggregate and binder properties of the local materials. Preliminary local calibration factors were obtained for transverse cracking and faulting of jointed plain concrete pavement. These local data were employed to develop pavement designs with the MEPDG software; these designs were then compared with designs developed with the current Chilean design methodology, which is based on AASHTO 93 and 98 methods. The work presented shows that the implementation of the MEPDG is possible for countries of Latin America. Some recommendations are provided for future versions of the MEPDG to make use of the software in the Southern Hemisphere easier and friendlier.