The influence of cracks on changes in stiffness moduli of asphalt mixtures based on in situ tests

Abstract

The role of diagnosis in predicting changes in the technical condition of pavement within the scope of potential repair needs and their costs is decisive. One of its aims it to detect certain factors, e.g. cracks which can considerably accelerate the degradation of pavement. Whereas the identification of cracks visible on the surface of wearing courses is possible at a visual inventory or photo-based pavement condition survey, revealing cracks in bituminous courses located below the wearing course requires the application of different methods. The present article introduces the effectiveness of identifying in a controlled way damaged bituminous courses of the pavement test section by means of the backcalculation technique. Basing on measurement results with the use of FWD (Falling Weight Deflectometer) device and pseudo-static values, the stiffness analysis of courses in the three-course pavement enabled to indicate the correct location of constrained damage.