THE "SYSTEMS" APPROACH TO CONCRETE PAVEMENTS

The performance of concrete pavements is influenced by the series of processes that takes place during a project. This paper reviews the processes that have a major influence on the long-term performance of concrete pavements, and suggests a "systems" approach to help assure due consideration of the interaction among these critical processes. The three major processes are: materials selection and mixture design, pavement design and the construction process. Aspects of each process are considered as they can influence uncontrolled cracking, faulting and concrete durability. Decisions made during the three processes must be mutually compatible, as well as compatible with environmental conditions at the time of paving and over the long term. A "systems" approach to concrete pavements would assure that these areas and their interaction are adequately considered, and therefore that long-lasting, high-performance concrete pavements are the routine result. The framework of the HIPERPAV software developed by the Federal Highway Administration is a practical means to apply this systems approach to concrete pavements.