Prospective of methods of analysis by finite elements and rational methods in the design of flexible and rigid pavements

Abstract

The development of pavement structure designs in the Colombian context requires innovation in terms of methodologies. This is primarily due to the fact that those currently used have become stagnant as they do not allow obtaining data directly related to reality, nor framed with the technical conditions of the environment of the intervention areas. Therefore, causing the impossibility of estimating the useful life structures in a more optimal and realistic way which enables the planning of maintenance work of both new projects and those that are already in operation. Furthermore, it is important to note that this situation generates higher expenditure of resources but lower satisfaction of road users. In this sense, this article seeks to explore the current state of the implementation of numerical models in the design of pavement structures by reviewing and analysing articles and other documents. This is done by the authors specialized in the subject in order to create an overview of the benefits provided through the implementation of these new methodologies, their operation and information requirements and their scope in terms of the possible results to be obtained.