What role does soil support value play in pavement thickness determination?

Soil support value is an important factor in determining pavement thickness because it influences the load-bearing capacity of the subgrade. A higher soil support value indicates a stronger subgrade that can withstand heavier loads with less deformation. This information is crucial for engineers as it helps them decide how much base material is needed to properly distribute loads and prevent pavement failure over time.

In pavement design, knowing the soil support value allows for the calculation of the required thickness of the pavement layers above it. If the subgrade has a lower support value, thicker layers of base and surface materials may be necessary to transfer loads effectively and maintain structural integrity. Conversely, if the support value is higher, it may be possible to use a thinner pavement structure while still ensuring performance and longevity.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of soil support value in pavement design. For instance, while durability is crucial for pavement longevity, it is not directly indicated by soil support value. Similarly, the type of aggregate and the establishment of base material are influenced by various factors, but these do not specifically relate to the capability of the soil to support the load, as defined by its support value.