Engineering and Technology Journal (Dec 2023)
Life cycle economic comparison between rigid and flexible pavement: a case study for the construction of wajen- garin barkamawa-dugurawa road in kano state nigeria
Abstract
Flexible pavements may be strengthened and enhanced incrementally to meet traffic needs, making them preferable to cement concrete roadways. Due to the rise of poor-quality bituminous pavements, Nigeria is promoting concrete pavements. Concrete pavements are becoming more popular because of their durability and ability to withstand heavy traffic and harsh environmental conditions. The primary objective of this study is to provide a comprehensive comparative analysis of both flexible and rigid pavement suitability, considering various parameters such as material characteristics, load-bearing capacity, longevity, and cost-effectiveness. The pavement structure used for the project meets the Federal Ministry of Works Highway Manual Part 1, Design Volume III specifications, with a few compositional adjustments. The study contains cost estimates for numerous parts of flexible pavement design, such as using a concrete wearing course, a bitumen emulsion tack coat, a concrete binder course, and an MC 1 cutback bitumen prime coat. The expenditure associated with the construction of flexible pavement amounts to 1,760,293,155.18 N, while the anticipated cost for the construction of rigid pavement is projected at 2,725,765,337.00 N. In percentage terms, rigid pavement costs 64% more than flexible pavement. Flexible pavement costs are based on supply, construction, and finish unit rates. The projected flexible pavement cost includes labor, materials, and plant expenditures. Reinforcing and concrete costs are estimated in rigid pavement studies. The analysis examines plant, people, and permanent material expenses. The research gives detailed pavement structural design and construction cost estimates for the road project, enabling informed pavement structure decisions.
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