Cross-scale Correlation of Macro-micro Evaluation Indexes for Asphalt Binder

Abstract

In order to further study the reliability of macro evaluation indexes, molecular dynamics (MD) was applied to the evaluation of asphalt binder. Micro evaluation indexes (potential energy, surface free energy, solubility parameter and diffusion coefficient) of asphalt binder in different service phases (virgin, modified, aged and rejuvenated) were simulated. Combined with the variation characteristics of asphalt binder macro evaluation indexes (permeability, ductility, viscosity and softening point) in different service phases, the cross-scale correlation of macro-micro evaluation indexes was explored. The results show that the macro and micro evaluation indexes of asphalt binder have different characteristics in different service phases. The essence of the variation in the properties of asphalt binders is the difference in micro composition. In addition, there is a certain correlation between macro and micro evaluation indexes, which can be described by the gray relation theory. The cross-scale correlation of macro-micro evaluation indexes can provide a certain theoretical basis for the development of asphalt binder.

Keywords

asphalt binder / macro-micro indexes / cross-scale correlation / different service phases / molecular dynamics