Title A Study on the Current Status and Improvement of Shape Specifications for Concrete Interlocking Blocks in Korea
Authors 이준철(Lee, Jun-Cheol)
DOI https://doi.org/10.5659/JAIK.2026.42.7.329
Page pp.329-335
ISSN 2733-6247
Keywords Concrete Interlocking Block; Geometric Standard; Aspect Ratio; Side Area to Top Area Ratio; Interlocking Performance
Abstract Concrete interlocking block pavements rely on a mechanical interlocking mechanism to distribute traffic loads. Despite the increasing demand for diverse block designs in South Korea, the current national standard (KS F 4419) lacks specific geometric constraints, leading to structural failures and the misuse of large-format slabs. This study evaluates domestic and international standards (ASTM, EN, JIS, and GB) using key geometric indicators: the Aspect Ratio (Ratio of Length to Thickness, L/T) and the Ratio of Side Area to Top Area (S/A). The analysis reveals that international guidelines strictly limit the aspect ratio to ensure structural stability. Furthermore, this research identifies a critical error in domestic administrative guidelines that misapply the "failure threshold" from Japanese manuals as a "success criterion." To ensure pavement durability, this paper proposes two essential geometric thresholds for the Korean standard: an Aspect Ratio (L/T) ≤ 4.0 and a Side Area to Top Area Ratio (S/A) ≥ 1.0. Implementing these standards will establish a clear technical identity for interlocking blocks and prevent premature deterioration.