Optimizing Geotechnical Data Input Based on Light Weight Deflectometer for Road Design and Performance Analysis

Abstract This study explores alternative methods for assessing critical parameters in pavement design, specifically Young’s modulus and Poisson’s ratio. While repeated load triaxial testing is traditionally used, its high cost and time requirements drive the search for more efficient methods. Falling weight deflectometer tests are also resource-intensive, leading to the investigation of light weight deflectometer tests. Utilizing EraPave software for analysis, which employs a multi-layer elastic theory back-calculation tool, the research examines material properties through laboratory tests on unbound granular material, sandy soil, silty sand soil, and sandy silty clay soil, providing data for field tests. Field LWD tests, conducted under various moisture contents and dynamic loads, provided data processed through EraPave to predict layer moduli. Results demonstrate LWD’s effectiveness in predicting layer moduli for different construction materials. Despite variations in root mean square error values, LWD data consistently align well with EraPave predictions, underscoring its reliability for pavement evaluation. Case studies illustrate LWD and EraPave’s adaptability to different moisture contents and stresses. This study advocates for LWD tests’ efficiency and highlights the importance of analytical tools like EraPave for accurate pavement assessments, contributing to optimized pavement evaluation processes and informed road construction and maintenance decisions.