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Concrete pavement performance models are evaluated, calibrated, and validated using field data from databases like the Long-Term Pavement Program. Conceptually, performance model predictions should match field data considering a reliability of 50%; that is, there is a 50% probability that the predictions of a certain distress indicator are higher or lower than the field data. However, modern pavements are designed for higher levels of reliability (usually 90% to 95%). Local performance model evaluation for higher levels of reliability requires a high amount of field data that traditional databases lack. Pavement management system (PMS) databases can be a useful resource for high reliability model analysis because of the large amount of data collected locally and regularly. However, when selecting and filtering field databases (of any source), the effect of censored performance data due to rehabilitation, removal from service, or modification of pavement sections is usually ignored. This paper proposes an approach for the use of PMS databases accounting for censored performance data to evaluate the accuracy of performance models' high reliability predictions. The approach is exemplified using a PMS transverse joint faulting database. Results show that by addressing the "survival issue," i.e., accounting for the censored performance data, the resulting PMS-based reliability model improves the faulting model accuracy in matching the field data for high reliability levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Dowel bars are used at transverse joints in concrete pavements to provide load transfer, reduce faulting and improve joint performance. However, a misaligned dowel may adversely affect the performance of a joint and cause distresses in the pavement. This paper presents development, calibration, validation and application of a finite element model for behaviour analysis of various types of dowel misalignment. The model permitted extension of the laboratory testing factorial, and the results were used to quantify the effects of concrete cover and embedment length. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An existing finite element program—ISLAB2000—was modified to allow for the analysis of horizontally restrained and unrestrained portland cement concrete (PCC) pavement slabs with partial depth cracks. To simulate a partial-depth crack, special line spring elements were added to the ISLAB2000 finite element code. Previously published relationships between spring elements stiffness and crack depth were used for formulating the element stiffness matrix of the line spring elements and to calculate stress intensity factors after solving the system of finite element equations.Several example problems of partially cracked PCC slabs subject to typical highway loadings were solved to verify this newly developed finite element model termed ISLAB2005. The impact of crack depth and base friction parameters on slabs stresses and deflections was investigated. On the basis of this analysis, ISLAB2005 was found to be a reliable tool for analysis of partially cracked pavements that are either restrained or unrestrained from horizontal movements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]