Thermal Expansion and Strain Behavior of Steel Fiber–Reinforced Rubberized Concrete for Cold-Region Pavement Design

Abstract

Cold-region pavements are highly susceptible to temperature-induced deterioration, including cracking, slab curling, and joint distress in conventional portland cement concrete (PCC). In Alaska and similar environments, these effects are compounded by surface abrasion from studded tires. This study evaluates the thermal expansion behavior of steel fiber–reinforced rubberized concrete (SFRRC) using long-term field instrumentation at a full-scale test section. Embedded vibrating wire strain gauges with integrated thermistors were installed at the center, edge, and corner of three precast SFRRC slabs to monitor strain and temperature over a 30-month period. These measurements were used to determine the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) and assess spatial variability. Results demonstrate strong linear strain–temperature relationships across all slab locations, indicating stable and predictable thermomechanical behavior. The measured CTE values ranged from 6.2 to 8. 4 με/°C, falling within typical PCC ranges and exhibiting reduced variability and stable response. Statistical analyses, including regression modeling and ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc testing, confirmed the consistency and significance of these trends. The relatively low and stable CTE response suggests reduced susceptibility to temperature-induced distresses such as joint movement, slab curling, and cracking. This study provides field-based evidence supporting the use of SFRRC in cold-region pavement applications and contributes to improved material characterization for mechanistic–empirical design frameworks, including AASHTOWare ME. The findings indicate that SFRRC is a durable and thermally stable alternative to conventional PCC, with potential benefits for long-term pavement performance and reduced maintenance demands in cold climates.