Abstract
A constitutive model for the steady-state deformation of idealised asphalt mixes is developed with the long term view to understanding the permanent deformation (rutting) of flexible pavements under vehicle loads. Triaxial compression tests are conducted on idealised asphalt mixes. Both volumetric and deviatoric strains are measured. The specimens are observed to dilate under compressive stresses and the deformation behaviour is seen to be dependent on the mean as well as the deviatoric stresses. A simple model for the overall steady-state behaviour of idealised mixes is developed using a “shear box” analogy from soil mechanics and theories for the deformation of nonlinear viscous composites. This constitutive relationship is dependent on the mean as well as deviatoric stresses and accounts for the dilation of the mixes under compressive loading. Predictions of the model are found to agree well with experimental measurements.
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