SENSO JOINT—An Innovative Sensor System for a Sustainable Joint Design of Concrete Pavements

Abstract

Inacceptable capability and durability of joint sealing systems but also inadequate traffic performance (noise emission; overrolling comfort) up to traffic safety aspects reflect the still enormous demand for data-based description of concrete pavements performance under heavy loading conditions. Especially the deformation behavior of concrete pavement slabs in the joint region in consideration of new pavement construction types and improved concrete mixtures meanwhile established but also under the steeply rising traffic loads is not sufficiently explored. To create a data basis for advanced design rules, evaluation methods and product standards - and with it to improve quality, durability and finally sustainability of pavements - an innovative 3-D sensor system SENSO JOINT adapted to german roadworking requirements and suitable for heavy-duty operating conditions was developed. The contribution introduced describes the development of an extensive technical solution based on the analysis of decisive loads, interactions and boundary conditions. Based on calibration data, results of laboratory testing and finally field-testing on different concrete pavement construction types the outcome of a multi-level evaluation process shall introduce the potential of the new sensor system.