1. Pavement structure

The pavement structure is the set of bound and unbound surfacing layers used in the construction of the pavement on the subgrade. The main role of this structure is to distribute traffic-induced forces by progressively absorbing them, so that the forces transmitted to the subgrade are low enough to ensure the pavement's stability and durability over its expected service life. The thickness of the layers making up the pavement must therefore be sufficient to ensure this function. The total thickness of the pavement structure and the thicknesses of its component layers are generally determined by the pavement design study, or by the use of standard structures for certain low-traffic pavements. In France, the method in use is that described in the technical guide for pavement structure design and dimensioning