Incorporation of plasticity and temperature effects on bituminous stabilised materials in a multi-layered pavement model

The mechanical properties of Bituminous Stabilized Materials (BSMs) have been widely studied in the past, however the influence of temperature on their non-linear constitutive properties has never been addressed. In this research, the role of temperature on the mechanical properties of a BSM prepared with asphalt emulsion and hydrated lime was investigated. Triaxial shear strength tests were performed at different temperatures and confining pressures. The experimental results allowed the development of finite element models defining the local stress and temperature-dependent mechanical properties. An approach for incorporating plasticity and temperature effects through a 2D axisymmetric finite element model of multilayer pavement was developed. Three pavement structures were subjected to the same load applications at different temperatures. Their responses were compared to determine the most critical scenario. In conclusion, plasticity and temperature are key factors for BSMs analysis and design while linear-elastic assumptions lead to overestimating the service life of rehabilitated pavements.