ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: A major research project has been conducted at the University of California Pavement Research Center to evaluate the performance of several asphalt mixes that contain binders with recycled rubber. This paper presents the analysis results with respect to reflection cracking using a mechanistic model based on non-local continuum damage mechanics and the finite element method. The damage evolution law parameters were identified using laboratory fatigue test data. The Finite Element model was validated by simulating full-scale pavement testing using a HeavyVehicle Simulator. The ranking of different asphalt mixes with respect to reflective cracking was then determined by simulating overlay systems with different asphalt mixes for the overlay but the same mechanical properties for all the underlying layers including old asphalt, aggregate base and subgrade.
