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Go to Editorial ManagerRigid pavement slabs are erected on a prepared subgrade or foundation layer, providing a hard and continuous surface. Transverse joints made of dowel bars connect them, and longitudinal joints made of tie bars join them longitudinally. This study is an investigation of the impact of soil strength and concrete parameters on the effectiveness of dowel bars in rigid pavements. Moreover, three parameters were examined; California Bearing Ratio (CBR), concrete compressive strength and slab thickness. The analysis was conducted using the Ever FE program and focused on several axle configurations applied to the joint. The results indicate inverse association between the pavement slab thickness and the concrete strength, under the assumption of consistent soil strength. Moreover, an assortment of reduced shear forces on the dowel bars is seen when the soil strength values increase. It indicates that soil strength has a greater impact on the shear load of dowel bars compared to the qualities of concrete. Additionally, the type of axles used and the magnitude of soil strength were shown to have a significant effect on the shear load.
Urban Heat Island (UHI) phenomena lead to elevated surface temperatures, increased energy consumption, and accelerated pavement degradation. This study aims to enhance the thermal and mechanical performance of asphalt mixtures by incorporating fly ash (FA), a byproduct of coal combustion, as a partial replacement for cement. Asphalt mixtures were prepared using various FA contents (0%, 2%, 4%, 6%) through the dry mixing method. Thermal conductivity was evaluated using the QTM-500 device, while Marshall tests assessed mechanical stability. Results showed that 6% FA reduced thermal conductivity by 20.13%, whereas 4% FA provided the best balance between thermal insulation and structural stability. A clear inverse relationship was observed between thermal conductivity and properties such as bulk density, Marshall stability, and air voids, indicating that FA can enhance insulation without compromising durability. The study focused on the surface asphalt layer, as it serves as the primary interface for solar radiation and heat exchange. Improving its thermal behavior reduces heat transfer to underlying layers, thereby extending pavement lifespan. Moreover, these improvements contribute to mitigating UHI effects, by lowering heat absorption during the day and minimizing heat retention at night supporting sustainable urban development.