Effects of Surface Rutting on Near-Surface Pavement Responses Based on a Two-Dimensional Axle-Tire-Pavement Interaction Finite-Element Model

Road surface profile is an important factor that affects the dynamic responses of the vehicle, which in turn affects pavement responses. In this study, a complete two-dimensional (2D) axle-tire-pavement interaction finite-element model was developed to investigate the effects of a rutted surface on near-surface pavement responses. The results indicate there is a significant difference in tire-pavement contact stress distributions between a rutted surface and a flat surface. The presence of a rutted surface increases both the propensity for top-down cracking and the severity of instability rutting. The observed trend indicates that the greater the existing rut severity is, the more likely it is for top-down cracking and increased rutting to occur.