A Study on Flexural Fatigue Performance of Cement-Treated Base in Flexible Pavements Due to Repetitive Loading

The chapter delves into the critical evaluation of cement-treated base (CTB) in flexible pavements, focusing on its flexural fatigue performance under repetitive loading. It begins by highlighting the global preference for flexible pavements and the necessity for sustainable construction practices. The study meticulously examines the influence of cement content and curing periods on the compressive and flexural strengths of CTB. The research includes extensive laboratory testing, such as cube compressive strength tests and four-point flexure tests, to assess the material's performance. One of the key findings is the significant improvement in flexural strength with increased cement content, reaching up to 6.84 MPa for 5% cement content. The chapter also introduces the concept of stress-life (S-N) relationships, showcasing the linear correlation between stress levels and the number of load cycles until failure. The validation of results is achieved by comparing the laboratory findings with established design guidelines, such as IRC-37 and IIT PAVE software. The study concludes by recommending a systematic approach to designing and evaluating CTB mixes, paving the way for their practical application in flexible pavement construction.