Viscoelasticity of Asphalt Mixture Based on the Dynamic Modulus Test

Abstract

This study comprehensively describes the viscoelastic behavior of high-elasticity modified asphalt mixtures under varying strain conditions. The commonly used sigmoidal model, which relies on a single parameter (dynamic modulus) to depict viscoelastic behavior, has limitations. In this research, by utilizing the dynamic modulus master curve and the Kramers–Kronig relationship, master curve models developed for the phase angle, storage modulus, and loss modulus enable a more comprehensive understanding of the materials’ viscoelastic response functions. Dynamic modulus tests were conducted on the high-elasticity modified asphalt mixtures using the simple performance tester (SPT) at various temperatures (5°C, 15°C, 25°C, 40°C, and 55°C) and frequencies (0.1, 0.5, 1, 5, 10, 20, and 25 Hz). The results indicate that the master curves of the phase angle, storage modulus, and loss modulus, established using the dynamic modulus master curve and Kramers–Kronig relationship, are well-fitted, demonstrating that the method feasibly can be used to draw the master curves for each viscoelastic parameter. Additionally, mathematical models based on the Kramers–Kronig relationship were developed to explain the correlations among parameters under dynamic loading conditions, and the accuracy of the master curve models for various parameters was validated. This deeper insight into material responses under varying loading conditions and temperatures can help researchers better model and predict the mechanical performance of pavements.