Abstract:

Pavement condition evaluation is a key component of a pavement management system (PMS) that facilitates decision-making in asset management. Whereas traffic loads and other factors may contribute to pavement deterioration, it appears that subgrade condition and its treatment contribute significantly to early deterioration. Generally, it appears there are few or limited studies that have explored the effectiveness of pavements built in swampy areas. Therefore, this paper attempts to examine the performance of a pavement built in different types of soil or subgrade strength. Structural and functional data that were collected using a Falling Weight Deflectometer (FWD) and Road Measurement Data Acquisition System (ROMDAS) are used in this study. A structural number (SN) for the different road sections is computed using FWD pavement deflections. Rutting and Roughness data measured by ROMDAS are used to assess the functional condition of the pavement. The results show that the functional performance of both sections (swampy and non–swampy) is satisfactory. However, the structural condition of the non–swampy section is better than the swampy section. This study contributes to the existing knowledge regarding the performance of flexible pavement sections built in swampy areas in comparison to other soil types. In conclusion, pavements constructed in swampy areas may achieve the required performance provided effective foundation and subgrade treatment is provided during design and construction.