Measurement and characterization of asphalt fatigue behavior under multi-factor effects

Abstract

Throughout the service life, multiple factors influence the fatigue properties of asphalt binders, including the modifier type, aging, freeze–thaw cycles, and ambient temperature. However, there is a significant dearth of studies targeting the collective impact of multiple factors on fatigue characteristics, and the extent to which each factor contributes has not been adequately quantified. To investigate the effects of variables and quantify the extent to which each factor contributes, the linear amplitude sweep test (LAS) was conducted to explore the effects of several factors on asphalt fatigue performance. Pearson correlation analysis and multi-factor analysis of variance were employed to study the extent and law of these effects. Results indicated that each factor exerts an influence on asphalt fatigue properties. Among them, the temperature exhibited the most pronounced effect on fatigue characteristics, followed closely by the modifier type and freeze–thaw cycles. The correlations between the criteria assessed through the LAS test and environmental factors exhibit variations. A noteworthy correlation was observed between fatigue life and both the modifier type and freeze–thaw cycles, analogous to the peak phase angle and aging, as well as the relationship between yield stress and temperature. It’s highly recommended to use appropriate evaluation criteria to assess the asphalt fatigue characteristics under varying conditions. The most substantial impact on fatigue characteristics was observed when subjected to 25 °C and 50 freeze–thaw cycles, as compared to other conditions. The method enables a comprehensive investigation of how temperature and freeze–thaw cycles affect the properties of asphalt fatigue characteristics. The findings will serve as valuable references for material selection and the assessment of long-life asphalt pavement.