Abstract
In this study, we developed a 3DFEM model for analysis of crack development and mechanical responses of steel bar and concrete slab in a continuously reinforced concrete pavement. An incremental method was adopted to consider variation of material properties of concrete in the early stage after placement. A model of interaction between steel and concrete was developed. The model was validated by comparing calculated responses and measured ones. Effects of asphalt interlayer between concrete slab and base course on the early age cracking were investigated with 3DFEM simulations. From the simulations, it was found that secondary cracks might occur near the first crack that were observed in the test pavement.
