Development of an FEM-DEM Model to Investigate Preliminary Compaction of Asphalt Pavements

Variations in pavement density have been widely monitored and investigated, both laboratory field experiments, since the compaction of is so critical to its long-term performance quality. In contrast testing, tests are simpler produce but less accurate. Destructive drilled samples used conduct testing; however, they limited their ability assess information at specific areas. The use computationally aided approaches, such as Finite Element Method (FEM) Discrete (DEM), research involving asphalt mixtures increasing, these methods simulate evaluate characteristics macroscopic microscopic scales. Individual particle behavior level cannot be fully represented using FEM alone, computing cost utilizing DEM approach alone prohibitively high. objective this work pre-compaction process by coupled FEM-DEM approach. order investigate impact mixtures’ gradation, a dense-graded mixture (AC 11) gap graded (PA were simulated. Different paving speeds (4, 5, 6 m/min) applied on preliminary model AC 11 study effect process. By comparing angular velocity, which worked reference quality, it was demonstrated that grade performed better compared PA mixtures. Moreover, has an compaction, speed carefully kept within reasonable range maximize quality project efficiency.