A Model for Fatigue Cracking Prediction of Asphalt Pavements Based on Mixture Bonding Energy

Abstract

The problem of fatigue cracking prediction on asphalt concrete pavements under the action of repeated loads is addressed through a model that is based on damage analysis performed from the point of view of a gradual loss of the bonding energy existing on the asphalt concrete mixture. A model was thus developed that could take into account several factors affecting cracking behaviour on pavement structures that were not considered adequately up to now, such as traffic speed and the shape of the stress pulse. This model describes the process that leads to fatigue cracks appearance at the pavement surface on the basis of a single mechanism, without the need to calculate stress intensity factors for the analysis of crack propagation through the thickness of the asphalt concrete layer. Application of the model to experiments at Nantes circular test track showed promising results.

Keywords:

• Asphalt pavements
• Asphalt concrete mixtures
• Fatigue cracking
• Performance prediction

Additional information

Notes on contributors

RéGis Martins Rodrigues

* Correspondence Author: Tel: [phone] Fax: [phone] e-mail: [email protected]