ABSTRACT
Traditionally, the design of flexible pavements in Costa Rica and countries in the region, has been performed with the empirical methodology defined by AASHTO in 1993. This methodology was developed for the climatic conditions and materials from Illinois, which significantly differ from those found in tropical countries. Current methodologies for flexible pavements design are based on the application of continuum mechanics, used to compute the responses of a pavement structure (stresses, strains, and deflections) as a result of traffic loading. To improve the local pavement design methodology the University of Costa Rica has worked on several research projects to develop its own mechanistic-empirical methodology (CRME). The research developed includes predictive models for determining the hot-mix asphalt dynamic modulus, unbound layers non-linear resilient modulus, axle load spectra, lateral wander, moisture and temperature effect on the materials.
