Structural Responses of Port Interlocking Concrete Block Pavements Based on a Three-Dimensional Mechanistic Model

To solve the worldwide problem of structural analysis for port interlocking concrete block pavements, a three-dimensional, mechanistic model is developed. In particular, the layout pattern of interlocking concrete blocks and its size are carefully considered. A dual spring with uniaxial compression and lateral shearing functions is employed to simulate the interlock effects among concrete blocks. The influences of concrete block sizes, sub-grade reaction modulus and the interlock intensity on the structural responses of port interlocking concrete block pavements are discussed. The deflections and the flexural stresses on base are summarized by comparison of results based on the model hereof and obtained with a multi-layered elastic system model. The validity of the model is logically verified. The study showed that with increase of the lateral shearing stiffness of dual spring, the elections and the flexural stresses on base decrease slightly, and the size of concrete block has somewhat of an influence on the structural responses of port interlocking concrete block pavements; whereas, the effect of sub-grade reaction modulus on the structural responses is substantial. Therefore, the research can be used as a basis for design of port interlocking concrete block pavements.