REVIEW AND ANALYSIS OF DESIGN METHODS FOR FLEXIBLE ROAD PAVEMENTS TO ASSESS THEIR EFFECTIVENESS IN MODERN INTERNATIONAL PRACTICE

Abstract

The modern methodology for designing flexible road pavements began to develop from the simplest techniques based on empirical laws. Quite quickly, international practice moved to the use of semi-empirical methods with various basic theoretical models. Semi-empirical methods have been the most widespread and fairly well tested for many decades. Taking into account the experience gained in their application in a particular country, these methods were corrected, but their theoretical component remained unchanged. Semi-empirical methods compete with mechanical-empirical models that appeared later, which, in addition to calculation, also make it possible to predict indicators of the operational state, allowing verification of engineering solutions for compliance with operational requirements, regulatory rules or customer wishes. It became clear that the future of pavement design would be with mechanical-empirical methods. Restraining their widespread adoption is associated with marketing value, local conservatism and insufficient statistics on the accuracy of forecasting performance indicators. But even in difficult economic conditions, for example, such as in the Syrian Arab Republic, the transition to mechanical-empirical methods of pavement design will provide the greatest efficiency of engineering solutions for flexible road pavements.