The need for more accurate predictions of critical pavement responses in mechanistic analysis requires nonlinear, stress-dependent geomaterial characterizations. Finite element (FE) based pavement analysis programs can employ such stress-dependent modulus models using nonlinear iterative solution techniques and convergence schemes with proven performances. This paper describes recent pavement modeling research efforts at the University of Illinois focused on the feasibility of using a general-purpose FE program for the analysis of flexible pavements having nonlinear, stress-dependent pavement foundations. The ultimate goal is to be able to do three-dimensional FE analyses considering the nonlinear resilient response characterization of geomaterials. An Uzan-type unbound aggregate model and a bilinear variation of subgrade soil modulus with deviator stress were both programmed in a user-defined material model subroutine in the commercial, general-purpose FE program ABAQUS™. Good agreement is shown between the validated GT-PAVE and ABAQUS™ nonlinear axisymmetric analysis results.
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