Application of Markov Chains and Monte Carlo Simulations for Pavement Construction Engineering

Markov chains and Monte Carlo Simulation were applied to account for the probabilistic nature of pavement deterioration over time using data collected in the field. The primary purpose of this study was to evaluate pavement network performance of Western Australia (WA) by applying the existing pavement management tools relevant to WA road construction networks. Two approaches were used to analyze the pavement networks: evaluating current pavement performance data to assess WA State Road networks and predicting the future states using past and current pavement data. The Markov chains process and Monte Carlo Simulation methods were used to predicting future conditions. The results indicated that Markov chains and Monte Carlo Simulation prediction models perform well compared to pavement performance data from the last four decades. The results also revealed the impact of design, traffic demand, and climate and construction standards on urban pavement performance. This study recommends an appropriate and effective pavement engineering management system for proper pavement design and analysis, preliminary planning, future pavement maintenance and rehabilitation, service life, and sustainable pavement construction functionality.