Predicting the Dynamic Modulus of Asphalt Concrete by Binder DSR Testing

This study proposes a completely new regression-based predictive model to estimate dynamic modulus (vertical bar E*vertical bar) of Asphalt Concrete (AC) from the dynamic shear modulus (vertical bar G(b)*vertical bar) and phase angle (delta b) of the asphalt binder used in the AC mix. Other parameters related to the aggregate gradation and volumetric are also incorporated in the model. In this study, a total of 10 AC mixes with 5 binders having different Performance Grades (PG) and sources were collected from the manufacturing plants. The AC mixes were compacted and cored to cylindrical specimens. After that, the samples were tested in the laboratory for vertical bar E*vertical bar at different temperatures and loading frequencies. The collected binders were tested for vertical bar G(b)*vertical bar and delta b using Dynamic Shear Rheometer (DSR). The statistical comparison shows that a fairly accurate estimation of vertical bar E*vertical bar can be found by using this new vertical bar E*vertical bar predictive model.