An engineering solution for minimising tripping hazards of pedestrian concrete pavements

An engineering solution for minimising tripping hazards of pedestrian concrete pavements

Koay, Y 2006, An engineering solution for minimising tripping hazards of pedestrian concrete pavements, PhD Thesis, School of Civil and Chemical Engineering, RMIT University.

Document type:	Thesis
Collection:	Theses

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Title	An engineering solution for minimising tripping hazards of pedestrian concrete pavements
Author(s)	Koay, Y
Year	2006
Abstract	Pedestrian pavements made of concrete are widely used around the world. In areas where the frequency of pedestrian movement is high, pedestrian concrete pavements tend to be more susceptible to pre-matured deterioration. One of the most common forms of deterioration is the uneven movements of concrete slabs. The vertical movements are often caused by tree root invasion and soil expansion or settlement. Problems arise when two adjoining slabs move up or down by different amounts. Such a differential vertical movement of adjoining slabs is known as “stepping displacement”. Stepping displacement is a major tripping hazard to pedestrians, especially to the elderly. To avoid tripping hazards which may result in injury, and potentially costly litigation, local councils need to be pro-active in carrying out concrete pavement repairs. There has been an increasing pressure on councils and local government authorities throughout Australia to eliminate potential hazards from their infrastructure. In order to overcome this problem, an extensive experimental investigation using CFRP dowels, shear connectors and proposed innovative joiners have been undertaken by the author to determine the differential movement and load transfer capability of induced contraction joints in pedestrian concrete pavements. Load transfer capacity of the joiners are important for resisting vertical shear forces and controlling differential vertical movement, thus reducing potential for joint damage and serviceability problems. The CFRP dowels, shear connectors and proposed innovative joiners are placed between adjoining concrete panels to ensure simultaneous movement of the panels. This thesis discusses the findings in the context of the requirements of Australian Standards for concrete pavements. The study focuses on the stepping displacement which is the cause of tripping hazards and therefore the most critical measurement for assessing the adequacy and performance of the joiners. Nonlinear finite element analysis using ABAQUS has been carried out and numerical models for predicting the behaviour of different joiners have been established. As a result of this investigation, effective and practical solutions for minimising stepping displacements of concrete slabs have been found and validated.
Degree	PhD Thesis
Institution	RMIT University
School, Department or Centre	School of Civil and Chemical Engineering
Keyword(s)	Pedestrian concrete pavements Stepping displacements Tripping hazard and Nonlinear finite element analysis

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