Finite Element Analysis of the Thermo-Mechanical Behaviour of Rigid Pavement under Seasonal Temperature Variations Using Abaqus
1*Oyaotuderekumor, O. I. and 2Akintude, O.P.
1,2Department of Civil Engineering, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
DOI: 10.36108/laujoces/6202.61.0262
Abstract
The study adopted a sequential methodology beginning with the collection of meteorological records, pavement geometric characteristics, and traffic loading data to establish realistic boundary and loading conditions. Additionally, temperature-dependent thermal and mechanical properties of concrete were experimentally evaluated in accordance with relevant ASTM and BS standards. Subsequently, a three-dimensional finite element model was developed in ABAQUS to simulate combined thermal cycles and wheel loading effects. The resulting deflection, stress, and strain responses were statistically analysed using SPSS to examine their variation and interrelationships across different temperature regimes. Meteorological analysis indicated mean annual ambient temperatures of 35.5 °C, 36.7 °C, 34.7 °C, and 38.5 °C for 2024, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. The pavement structure consisted of a jointed plain concrete pavement with a slab thickness of 240 mm, slab width of 3.75 m, and transverse joint spacing of 3.5 m. Furthermore, axle load analysis produced equivalent standard axle factors of 0.56, 1.50, 2.25, and 3.00 for light vans, medium trucks, cement trucks, and fuel tankers, respectively. Experimental results showed a consistent decline in thermal conductivity, specific heat, flexural strength, and elastic modulus with increasing temperature. Correspondingly, numerical simulations revealed progressive increases in pavement deflection, strain, and stress between 25 °C and 40 °C. Correlation analysis further demonstrated near-perfect relationships among these responses, with coefficients exceeding 0.97, indicating highly predictable thermo-mechanical behaviour. Overall, the findings confirm that elevated temperatures significantly degrade concrete performance; therefore, the incorporation of supplementary cementitious materials is recommended to improve thermal stability and ensure long-term pavement durability.
Keywords: Rigid Pavement, Thermo-Mechanical Behaviour, Finite Element Modelling, ABAQUS, Thermal Gradients, Deflection, Stress–Strain Response.