Mechanical Response Analysis of Ultra-Thin Asphalt Wearing Course Pavement Under Non-Uniform Loading Pressure.

Abstract

Traditional ultra-thin asphalt wearing course designs often oversimplify wheel loads as uniform pressures, neglecting critical non-uniform effects. This study establishes a 3D finite element model incorporating realistic non-uniform tire loading to reveal its mechanistic influence on pavement responses. Results demonstrate that non-uniform loading significantly alters stress states in ultra-thin layers, substantially elevating critical stresses compared to uniform assumptions. A novel Non-uniform Load Influence Factor (NLIF) accounting for thickness effects is developed to quantify these deviations. The analysis provides a foundation for revising material strength specifications and fatigue design criteria, contributing to improved performance and durability of ultra-thin pavement systems.