The effects of flexible and rigid pavement parameters on the selection of pavement type

The main problem in choosing asphalt pavement or rigid pavement types is cost. It is necessary to evaluate, research and compare which superstructure would be ideal for different situations in Turkey, as well as the economic and technical characteristics. In this study, pavement types are compared. Surface coating, flexible coating and rigid coating thicknesses and costs are examined. Modulus of elasticity (MR), bearing coefficient (k) and 8.2 tons standard axle load repetition number (T8.2) parameters are used for coating thickness and cost comparison. MR is used for flexible pavement, k parameter is used for rigid pavement and T8.2 is used for both pavement types. According to the values given, the coating thickness decreases as the MR value increases in surface coating and flexible coating types. According to the values given, the coating thickness decreases as the MR value increases in surface coating and flexible coating types. In rigid pavement, there is no visible change as the k value increases. When the cost comparison is made, the cost per square meter decreases as the MR value increases. As the T8.2 value increases, the square meter unit cost also increases at the same rate. The most economical type of coating is surface coating for coatings up to 3x106 T8.2 in calculated costs. Bituminous hot mixture (BSK) can be chosen as the first choice in good ground conditions with a T8.2 value over 3x106. It is more economical to choose a flexible pavement type on the roads with low traffic flow. On roads with high traffic flow, rigid pavements are more economical than flexible pavements. In another study, Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model and the Linear Regression (LR) model were compared in the analyzes performed for the estimation of the pavement thicknesses. Mean Squares of Errors (MSE), Average Percent Error (APE) and Correlation calculations were made for linear regression analysis. According to the results, ANN analysis gave better results than LR analysis model in estimating flexible and rigid pavement thicknesses.