The pavement suitable for heavy traffic load is

Question

Examoogle · Accepted Answer

The correct answer is Option C: cement concrete. Cement concrete pavements, classified as rigid pavements, are the most suitable for heavy traffic loads because they distribute the load over a wider area of the subgrade due to the high flexural strength of the concrete slab. Unlike flexible pavements that deform under load, rigid pavements rely on the structural strength of the slab itself to support traffic.

Step-by-Step Solution & Concepts:
Cement concrete pavements, classified as rigid pavements, are the most suitable for heavy traffic loads because they distribute the load over a wider area of the subgrade due to the high flexural strength of the concrete slab. Unlike flexible pavements that deform under load, rigid pavements rely on the structural strength of the slab itself to support traffic.

Working Principle: In a rigid pavement, the concrete slab acts like a beam or plate. When a load $P$ is applied, the internal stresses are governed by the Westergaard's stress equations. The high modulus of elasticity ($E_c$) of cement concrete ensures minimal deflection under heavy axle loads, distributing pressure effectively to the underlying layers (base/subgrade) and preventing shear failure.

Key Formulas: $S = \frac{0.316P}{h^2} [4\log_{10}(\frac{l}{b}) + 1.069]$ — Westergaard's equation for edge stress calculation; $\sigma_{max} = \frac{Mc}{I}$ — Flexural stress in a concrete beam/slab

Key Points: Rigid pavements have a high modulus of rupture compared to bituminous layers.; The load-spreading ability of rigid pavement is significantly higher due to the 'slab action'.; Suitable for high-density heavy vehicle traffic such as airports and national highways.; Maintenance requirement is generally lower over the service life compared to flexible pavements.

Advantages: High structural strength and durability.; Resistance to oil and fuel spillage.; Longer service life (up to 30-40 years).

Disadvantages: High initial construction cost.; Complex joint maintenance and repair.; Risk of slab cracking due to thermal expansion/contraction.

Applications: Airport runways and taxiways.; Heavy industrial loading zones.; Urban arterial roads with high axle loads.

Additional Info: Rigid pavement refers to cement concrete roads, while flexible pavement refers to bituminous or asphalt roads.. Option A and B are examples of flexible pavements which are more susceptible to deformation under extreme heavy loading compared to concrete slabs.

Answer: C is correct — Cement concrete pavement, being a rigid pavement, possesses high flexural strength and distributes heavy traffic loads over a larger area of the subgrade.

Exam Tip: Always remember that rigid pavements (concrete) distribute load via slab action, whereas flexible pavements (bitumen) distribute load via grain-to-grain contact; this is the fundamental reason for their performance differences.

Examoogle · Answer

Option A: Asphalt concreting

Examoogle · Answer

Option B: Bituminous grouted macadam

Examoogle · Answer

Option D: surface dressed macadam

Correct Answer

Solve 10,000+ More Questions with AI Tutor

Discussion (0)

Correct Answer

Solve 10,000+ More Questions with AI Tutor

Related Questions

Discussion (0)