Modeling of highway subbase and base layers using abaqus software

In this thesis, the mechanical behavior of subbase and base layers in flexible highway pavements was modeled using the Finite Element Method (FEM) through the ABAQUS software. These layers, which play a critical role in load distribution and structural integrity, exhibit different stiffness and deformation characteristics depending on material type, loading conditions, and layer thickness an axisymmetric multilayer pavement model was created in ABAQUS, and stress distributions under vertical loads were analyzed. The numerical results were validated by comparing them with theoretical Boussinesq solutions. The results showed that variations in stiffness between layers significantly affect pavement performance. This modeling approach demonstrates how ABAQUS can be effectively used in road engineering design. The study also discusses the advantages and limitations of ABAQUS and provides a foundation for future parametric analyses under different loading and environmental conditions.