The influence of multiple axle loads on the performance of an unbound granular pavement under accelerated loading: interim data report

This report details the data collected during the performance assessment of a typical unbound granular pavement under accelerated loading, using the Accelerated Loading Facility (ALF) with single, tandem and triaxle axle group loads. As part of the research the ALF machine was modified to allow the application of (half) tandem and triaxle groups in addition to a (half) single axle. Additionally, the axle assemblies were redesigned to better emulate the suspension of a standard heavy vehicle. For this study, 12 identical test pavement sections were constructed inside the ALF shed in Melbourne. The pavements comprised of a representative crushed rock base material overlying an average subgrade and surfaced with a double/double sprayed seal using a polymer modified emulsion binder. Two additional experiment locations were trafficked between the originally planned 12 locations. Analysis of the data, and any resulting recommendations, will be the subject of separate reporting at a later date.