Analysis of rigid pavement stresses by Finite Element Method & Westergaard's Method by varying sub-grade soil properties

The Project involves design and mechanistic analysis of a rigid pavement and further reveals the disparity and contrast between the Empirical and Finite Element Analysis techniques on an empirically designed rigid pavement. Where both the mentioned procedures were conducted, the results were plotted so that the deviation is pronounced. Since, the use of Empirical Analysis is eminently laborious; hence in order to execute several iterations with diverse material properties, locations of applied load and load combinations, we have endeavored to appreciate the convenient use of FEA, for which, software EverFE 2.25 is being used as a tool to operate the Finite Element Analysis. The response of the pavement was observed and the results compared with the Westergaard's manual calculations were satisfying and encouraging. The model was then gradually enhanced so to meet the most realistic conditions. More and more parameters were involved and a model with optimum meshing, most suitable elements with self-defined complex properties, appropriate material properties, realistic boundary conditions and load applications was achieved. With single tyre configurations, the model will be then subjected to number of varying input parameters like the change in the thickness of pavement slab, sub-grade material to rigid foundation, and position and intensity of loads.