Methodology for performance evaluation of precast concrete inlay panels as a pavement repair technique

Deep-seated rutting of asphalt pavements has been observed on some high-traffic volume highways in Ontario, Canada. The current rehabilitation technique of milling and replacing the asphalt has been observed to last for only 3 to 5 years. The use of Precast Concrete Inlay Panels (PCIP) is a new rehabilitation strategy that provides a longer service life and can be installed rapidly during overnight lane closures to minimize construction-related impacts on roadway users. A trial construction of PCIP was completed in 2016 on Highway 400 near the city of Toronto. Evaluating the long-term performance of PCIP is necessary to ensure that this rehabilitation strategy is feasible and provides the expected level of service. The objective of this paper is to establish a methodology to assess the performance of the PCIP based on monitoring, testing, and inspections of the trial site and by modelling PCIP using ABAQUS finite element analysis (FEA). The trial site will be inspected for panel and joint condition and distresses. Instrumentation installed on site is used to collect data remotely. Deflection testing, roadway surface friction testing, profile measurements, and noise testing will also be completed. The performance of PCIP will be evaluated for various traffic, temperature, site and construction conditions using FEA. Deflection results can be used to calculate theoretical joint faulting and load transfer efficiency of the joints. Stresses and strains in the concrete and dowel grout will be used to predict whether concrete/dowel grout crushing or tensile cracking will occur.