Modeling linear and nonlinear viscoelastic oscillatory rheometric stress-strain hysteresis of asphalt binders

Abstract

Understanding the complex stress-strain hysteresis behavior of asphalt binders under varied conditions is critical for optimizing pavement performance. This study addresses the challenge by analyzing and modeling asphalt binder responses in oscillating shear mode across different aging states (unaged, short-term aged, and long-term aged), stretch amplitudes, frequencies, and temperatures. Fifty-three stress-strain hysteresis loops were meticulously analyzed, revealing distinct stress paths relative to applied stretch levels. A nine-parameter parallel rheological framework model was developed, integrating a four-parameter eight-chain (FEC) hyperelastic model in one network and a FEC hyperelastic model with a linear viscoelastic flow element in series in another. This constitutive model was implemented in LS-DYNA finite element simulations to predict experimentally-measured stress-strain hysteresis loops accurately. The research demonstrates the model’s capability to simulate both linear and nonlinear viscoelastic responses of asphalt binders across a wide range of environmental and loading conditions. This approach significantly enhances our ability to capture and understand the stress-strain behavior critical for asphalt pavement durability and performance optimization.