Jointing in cement concrete pavements – spacing of transverse joints Transverse joints in CC pavements are commonly provided at spacings in the approximate range:

Introduction / Context:
Transverse joints in cement concrete pavements control cracking due to shrinkage and temperature changes and permit controlled movement. Spacing depends on slab thickness, aggregate type, and climatic conditions, but typical ranges are used in practice.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Ordinary jointed plain concrete pavement (JPCP) on highways.
• Moderate slab thickness typical of Indian practice.
• We seek a representative spacing range for transverse (contraction) joints.

Concept / Approach:
Common field practice places contraction joints roughly between 12 m and 18 m for highway slabs, balancing crack control with construction economy. Expansion joints are much farther apart (or minimized in modern design); here we focus on the frequent transverse joints.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify joint type → transverse contraction joints.Adopt typical spacing range from standard guidance → about 12–18 m.Choose the matching option.

Verification / Alternative check:
Several manuals suggest joint spacing about 4–6 times slab length in meters per 100 mm of thickness; for typical slabs this aligns near 12–18 m.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• 10–15 m: somewhat conservative; still used in harsh climates but not the classic broader range.
• 16–24 m or higher: risks mid-panel cracking for common slab thicknesses in warm climates.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing contraction-joint spacing (frequent) with expansion-joint spacing (infrequent or eliminated).

Final Answer:
12 m to 18 m