Valoración de modelos de fatiga para pavimentos flexibles en la región costera ecuatoriana.

Abstract

The research evaluates different fatigue models applied to flexible pavements in the Ecuadorian coastal region to determine which best fits the local climate and traffic conditions. Key factors such as temperature, asphalt aging, dynamic modulus of the mixture, and vehicular loads are analyzed. For this purpose, the WINJULEA software is used to simulate deformations in pavements with thicknesses ranging from 15 to 25 cm, as well as the Witczak equation to estimate the dynamic modulus. Additionally, models such as AASHTO 2002 and 2008 are compared with real deterioration data from local roads, identifying significant discrepancies in the allowable load repetitions. The methodology combines bibliographic analysis, rheological tests using a dynamic shear rheometer (DSR), and mechanistic modeling, allowing the adjustment of the AASHTO 2002 k'1 parameter through equations calibrated with field data. The results highlight the sensitivity of the models to variations in dynamic modulus, air voids, and asphalt content, emphasizing the importance of optimal compaction and the use of mixtures with high binder content to extend pavement service life. The study concludes that global models need to be adapted to Ecuadorian conditions, proposing specific equations to estimate failure repetitions due to top-down cracking. It is recommended to validate the adjusted model on additional road sections, assess the performance of modified asphalts, and incorporate these criteria into future pavement designs.