In the recent past, new materials, laboratory and in-situ testing methods and construction techniques have been introduced. In addition, modern computational techniques such as the finite element method enable the utilization of sophisticated constitutive models for realistic model-based predictions of the response of pavements. The 7th RILEM International Conference on Cracking of Pavements provided an international forum for the exchange of ideas, information and knowledge amongst experts involved in computational analysis, material production, experimental characterization, design and construction of pavements.
All submitted contributions were subjected to an exhaustive refereed peer review procedure by the Scientific Committee, the Editors and a large group of international experts in the topic. On the basis of their recommendations, 129 contributions which best suited the goals and the objectives of the Conference were chosen for presentation and inclusion in the Proceedings.
The strong message that emanates from the accepted contributions is that, by accounting for the idiosyncrasies of the response of pavement engineering materials, modern sophisticated constitutive models in combination with new experimental material characterization and construction techniques provide a powerful arsenal for understanding and designing against the mechanisms and the processes causing cracking and pavement response deterioration. As such they enable the adoption of truly "mechanistic" design methodologies.
The papers represent the following topics: Laboratory evaluation of asphalt concrete cracking potential; Pavement cracking detection; Field investigation of pavement cracking; Pavement cracking modeling response, crack analysis and damage prediction; Performance of concrete pavements and white toppings; Fatigue cracking and damage characterization of asphalt concrete; Evaluation of the effectiveness of asphalt concretemodification; Crack growth parameters and mechanisms; Evaluation, quantification and modeling of asphalt healing properties; Reinforcement and interlayer systems for crack mitigation; Thermal and low temperature cracking of pavements; and Cracking propensity of WMA and recycled asphalts.
