Granular sub-base utilization in concrete carriageways presents several drawbacks:
- Permeability Concerns: The permeable nature of granular sub-base allows water to seep through, leading to the pumping of soil particles out of contraction/expansion joints under traffic loads. This can create voids beneath the pavement, increasing the risk of cracking under heavy traffic.
- Limited Strength: Compared to lean concrete, granular sub-base offers lower strength, making it less suitable for roads with heavy traffic loads. Lean concrete’s higher strength, as noted by David Croney and Paul Croney (1992), provides better support and load distribution for such pavements.
- Uneven Distribution Risk: Due to potential workmanship issues, granular sub-base can be unevenly distributed. This unevenness can create stress concentrations in the concrete carriageway, making it more susceptible to cracking under heavy traffic.
These shortcomings highlight the importance of careful consideration when choosing a sub-base material for concrete carriageways. While granular sub-base may be suitable for lighter traffic roads, its limitations become apparent in high-traffic scenarios. Lean concrete offers a more robust alternative for such applications, providing greater strength and resistance to the challenges posed by heavy loads and potential workmanship issues.
admin Changed status to publish July 30, 2024