ABSTRACT
As part of the development of a mechanistic-empirical pavement design system for Norwegian conditions, this paper presents the results of a laboratory study assessing asphalt mixture master curves based on Cyclic Indirect Tensile Tests (CITT). Specimens were prepared by means of a gyratory Intensive Compactor Tester (ICT), as well as by means of a roller compactor. The four asphalt mixtures of AC (asphalt concrete) 11, AC 16, SMA (stone mastic asphalt) 11, and SMA 16 with bitumen 70/100 commonly used as the surface layer in Norway were investigated. The dynamic modulus of the asphalt mixture samples was determined by frequency-sweep CITT at different temperatures. Based on the time-temperature superposition principle, the master curves were constructed and they are an important input for the mechanistic-empirical pavement design system to be implemented in the country. The voids characteristics, shift factor, and dynamic modulus of the four types of asphalt mixtures were compared. Besides, the effect of different compaction methods in the laboratory was investigated and recommendations regarding the specimen preparation were given.
