Example: 1

Curling of slab with full contact

The figure above shows the division of the slab into finite elements. Due to symmetry, only a
quarter of the slab need be used for analysis. The slab is 25 ft (7.62 m) long, 12 ft (3.66 m) wide,
and 8 in. (203 mm) thick and is subjected to a temperature differential of 20 F (11.1 oC). Assume
(a) a liquid foundation with a k value of 200 pci (54.3 MN/m^3) and (b) a solid foundation with
an elastic modulus of 15,000 psi (103 MPa) and a Poisson's ratio of 0.4.
Example: 2
Two Slabs on Solid Foundation with Full Contact

The above figure shows a two slab system on a solid foundation subjected to a 32,000 lb (142.4
kN) tandem axle load with a tire pressure of 90 psi (621 kPa). One axle load is applied near the
doweled joint with the exterior tire on the pavement edge. The concrete slab is 8 in. (203 mm)
thick and the subgrade has an elastic modulus of 5,000 psi (34.5 MPa) and a Poisson's ratio of
0.45. Assuming that the slab and subgrade are in full contact, determine the maximum stress and
deflection in the slabs.