Determination of pavement thickness using spectral analysis of surface waves

Although the use of the spectral analysis of surface waves method of pavement thickness estimation is a promising non-destructive testing alternative, the data acquisition and reduction required is a difficult and lengthy process. This thesis was completed to develop a testing unit that increases testing efficiency, and a data reduction program that creates a dispersion curve quickly. Additionally, some new impact sources were investigated for viability. These components were tested in three scenarios: a controlled site, a multiple soil road survey, and a newly constructed pavement. It was found that the proposed system delivers results with less required operator experience, and with a greater degree of accuracy than with currently used methods.