Comparative study of flexural stress estimation methods in concrete pavement considering tied concrete shoulder

In this study, compared two distinct estimation methods (stress charts and regression equations) proposed by the Indian road congress design guideline (IRC:58-2015) to determine flexural stress in Jointed Plain Concrete Pavement (JPCP). The occurrence of critical flexural stresses in pavement slabs is due to the combined effects of wheel loads and temperature. These stresses depend on various factors such as material properties of concrete, soil-subgrade strength, loading, and geometric properties of the slab. In order to account for the practical variability of these factors, critical edge stresses are determined using both methods and compared considering tied concrete shoulder. IRC:58 (2015) suggests, the stresses calculated by both the procedures should provide the same results. However, when these stresses are compared for the same configurations and same loading conditions, large variations are observed. The effect of tied concrete shoulder on reduction in critical edge stress is observed. Based on the study, certain important conclusions and recommendations are presented.