Predicting the dynamic behavior of asphalt concrete using three-dimensional discrete element method

Abstract

A user-defined three-dimensional (3D) discrete element model was presented to predict the dynamic modulus and phase angle of asphalt concrete (AC). The 3D discrete element method (DEM) model of AC was constructed employing a user-defined computer program developed using the “Fish” language in PFC3D. Important microstructural features of AC were modeled, including aggregate gradation, air voids and mastic. The irregular shape of aggregate particle was modeled using a clump of spheres. The developed model was validated through comparing with experimental measurements and then used to simulate the cyclic uniaxial compression test, based on which the dynamic modulus and phase angle were calculated from the output stressstrain relationship. The effects of air void content, aggregate stiffness and volumetric fraction on AC modulus were further investigated. The experimental results show that the 3D DEM model is able to accurately predict both dynamic modulus and phase angle of AC across a range of temperature and loading frequencies. The userdefined 3D model also demonstrated significant improvement over the general existing two-dimensional models.

Keywords

asphalt concrete / dynamic modulus / micromechanics / discrete element method / three-dimensional model / uniaxial compression test

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