Failure mode analysis and design system investigation for CCP in cold regions subject to multifactor coupling effects

The failure modes of cement concrete pavements (CCP) were studied under the combined effects of salt freezing, temperature, and humidity to improve design methodologies for low-volume CCP in cold regions. A novel life assessment method integrating indoor experiments-numerical simulations is proposed as a core of the CCP design system for cold regions. Size optimization was then performed to reduce costs and enhance efficiency. It’s pointed that CCP experiences an unfavorable stress state—tension at the upper section and compression at the lower section—due to traffic load coupled with temperature and humidity variations. While salt freezing causes the elastic modulus of concrete to decline, it also releases some stress. The outcomes from the new life assessment methodology consistently fall below standard pavement design reference periods. Based on this framework, it has been determined that the critical thickness for small-sized plates should be 14 cm. Results indicate that traffic load-temperature-humidity coupling is a primary factor in premature failures of CCP in cold regions. This study introduces a novel life evaluation method considering salt freezing impacts, allowing service life assessments for rural CCP. Additionally, smaller panels can significantly reduce stress in cement pavements under complex conditions, lowering structural costs.