Análise do comportamento de pavimentos ferroviários em função da variação dos materiais da camada de subleito e avaliação das alternativas de reforço dos subleitos

Abstract

This study analyzes the mechanical behavior of railway pavements considering variations in the materials of the subgrade layer, with an emphasis on stability and the feasibility of reinforcement to support specific loads. Two scenarios were investigated: the soil of Várzea Grande (MT) and the soil of Lucas do Rio Verde (MT). An empirical method was used for pavement design, assessing the need for subgrade reinforcement and the properties of the materials employed. The tests showed that the soil from Várzea Grande, stabilized with 4.5% cement, presented a California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of 176.2%. Although technically efficient, this solution proved to be economically unfeasible. In contrast, treatment with 2.5% hydrated lime resulted in a CBR of 22%, making it suitable for use as a reinforcement layer. In the second scenario, the soil, classified as A-6, was treated with hydrated lime and aluminum sulfate. The addition of hydrated lime, at a ratio of 1:1500, resulted in a CBR of 16.81%, which was inadequate for reinforcement. On the other hand, treatment with aluminum sulfate, at a ratio of 1:2500, achieved a CBR of 20.33%, proving to be both technically and economically viable. It is concluded that the choice of reinforcement materials should consider both mechanical properties and economic feasibility. In this regard, hydrated lime and aluminum sulfate stand out as effective alternatives. This study contributes to the optimization of railway pavements, promoting the sustainable and efficient use of local resources.