Finite Difference Modeling of Misaligned Dowel Bars and Their Effects on Joint Performance

This paper presents an analysis of the potential impact of misaligned dowel bars on concrete pavement joint performance. The performance and efficiency of a concrete pavement joint is assessed through the ability of the joint to expand and contract under temperature variations. With the finite difference method, the pullout force and stress distribution resulting from various dowel bar misalignment combinations are compared to propose an …