Effects Of Size Reduction Of Plain Concrete Slabs Under Traffic And Temperature Loads

Abstract

This study examines the structural behavior of plain concrete pavement slabs under various loading and temperature conditions, considering a thermal gradient of 11.3°C. A standard slab with dimensions of 4500 mm length, 3500 mm width, and 200 mm thickness, as well as other slabs with reduced dimensions, are modeled to analyze how these variations affect the tensile and compressive stresses. The results show that tensile stresses increase significantly when the slab length is reduced to less than 3000 mm. Furthermore, the slab thickness has a considerable impact on the stresses generated. Specifically, compressive stresses are observed in slabs with lengths less than 3000 mm and thicknesses less than 15 cm. Reducing the thickness amplifies the changes in stresses, underscoring the importance of maintaining adequate thickness to prevent structural failures. The analysis reveals that both the applied load and the thermal gradient significantly influence the stresses within the slab. The need for careful design that considers both slab dimensions and the combined effects of loading and temperature to ensure good structural performance of the pavement is highlighted.