ABSTRACT
The semi-analytical finite element method (SAFEM) has an advantage in computational efficiency since it only requires meshing in the cross-section while substituting meshing with interpolations of Fourier series along the third dimension. This study aims to develop this method for viscoelastic analysis further. More specifically, use the Generalized Maxwell model to describe the stress-strain relation, and the state variables approach to achieve the viscoelastic iteration. Then a program based on this method for simulating the BBR tests was developed, and its accuracy was verified by comparing with the test results of different asphalt binders. Besides, the comparison with the 3D finite element model in ABAQUS indicated the efficiency of SAFEM. Altogether, the modeling approach has some value for the widespread application of SAFEM in structural modeling.
