Validation of a transfer function adopted in the Brazilian mechanistic-empirical pavement design guide based on accelerated HVS and real traffic loads

The paper presents the development and calibration of the Brazilian mechanistic-empirical design guide for flexible pavements, Medina. Based on a national database, the method incorporates advanced mechanical models to simulate the performance of pavement layers. To calibrate the transfer function that relates model predictions to field-observed damage, 45 test sections were monitored over ten years, collecting data on traffic, deflection, and cracking. The transfer function was validated using damage behavior predictions from additional 15 segments built in different regions of the country and three experimental sections subjected to accelerated testing with a Heavy Vehicle Simulator (HVS). The results confirm the applicability of the developed design guide and highlight the importance of monitoring real-world test sections in the field.