Abstract

ABSTRACT The propagation of cracks in in-service asphalt pavements is closely related to the complicated traffic loading patterns over time. However, typical traffic-related variables capture only the overall traffic level without being able to account for the load-time history. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the effects of traffic load sequence on the cracking performance of asphalt pavement from both field and laboratory perspectives. A load amplitude sequence (LAS) index was developed to characterize the traffic loading sequence in the field. Two machine learning (ML) algorithms, namely artificial neural network (ANN) and random forest regression (RFR), were applied to correlate the LAS index with field pavement cracking performance. The two-block semi-circular bending (SCB) test was developed to characterize the non-linear fatigue damage accumulation of asphalt mixtures. It was found that heavier traffic loads in early stages are detrimental to the long-term pavement cracking performance. The LAS index plays a crucial role in the prediction and development of pavement cracks. The laboratory test results reveal that a loading sequence starting with a higher stress may shorten the fatigue life and vice versa. The outcomes of this study may contribute to a better understanding of the traffic loading characterization of in-service asphalt pavements.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.