A History of Joints in Concrete Pavements

The factors that affect the design of pavement joints are subbase, slab length, type of pavement, type of joint, load transfer device, and joint sealant. Knowledge about each of these factors has been developing through research and testing ever since the first concrete pavement was cast. The transverse joint most widely used today is the contraction joint in a reinforced pavement with round dowel bars for load transfer. The joint is sealed with a preformed compression seal. Slab lengths still show a great variation throughout the country.