Comparative Case Studies on Portland Cement Concrete Pavement Construction: Jointed Plain Concrete Pavements vs. Jointed Reinforced Concrete Pavement

In Thailand, Jointed Reinforced Concrete Pavements (JRCP) and Jointed Plain Concrete Pavements (JPCP) are prevalent types of Portland cement concrete pavements. Despite their popularity, there is a lack of comparative analysis based on actual construction experiences. This research endeavors to provide a qualitative comparison of the construction of Portland cement concrete pavements through case studies involving JRCP and JPCP. Three key factors, namely cost, construction duration, and ease of construction, were meticulously evaluated. The case studies focused on Highway Route 1035 and the Apron at Surat Thani International Airport. A systematic approach involving questionnaires, scoring, and a weighted rubric was employed to analyze ratings derived from the three factors. The findings indicate that JPCP exhibits lower initial costs and an overall shorter construction time compared to JRCP, attributed to the reduced use of steel. This characteristic also contributes to the ease of construction for JPCP. However, JRCP is known for its smoother surface and is more commonly observed in Thailand, despite having a shorter lifespan. Conversely, JPCP boasts a longer lifespan but necessitates considerations for pumping and smoothness during construction.