Dynamic behavior of asphalt pavement structure under temperature-stress coupled loading

The coupled effect of temperature and stress loading is a critical factor in the evaluation of the structural stability of asphalt pavements. Temperature gradient and external loading are direct causes of pavement structure deformation and failure. A coupling dynamic model for describing such a failure under high temperature and dynamic loading was established. The model was based on the thermoviscoelastic deformation theory of asphalt mixtures. The distribution law of temperature and stress fields on the asphalt surface, as well as the key factors that influence asphalt pavement failure, was simulated and analyzed. The simulation results were consistent with the monitoring results in Guangzhou West 2nd Ring Expressway, which indicates that the model was reliable for the analysis of daily temperature variations of asphalt pavements. Weather conditions considerably affected the monitoring results. Temperature variation directly affected the modulus and further influenced the compressibility and shear strength; however, the vertical stress was slightly affected. The reliability of the model was further verified by comparing the monitoring and simulation results of the asphalt pavement deformation under varying temperatures. These conclusions provide key parameters for asphalt pavement optimization and support for damage control technologies.