Numerical study of the aggregate contact effect on the complex modulus of asphalt concrete

Asphalt concrete (AC) is a composite material consisting of binder, aggregates and air voids. The quantitative effect aggregate-to-aggregate contact on the mechanical performance AC an important complex issue, which has not been fully understood yet. To fill this gap, study aims to characterize aggregate contacts in evaluate their effects viscoelastic behavior through micromechanical finite element (FE) modeling. end, 3D microstructural models were generated digital image processing (DIP) method captured model via zone (CZ) elements. A CZ was proposed verified by parametric identify properties elements, while matrix phase determined laboratory tests. Steady-state dynamic (SSD) analysis then conducted investigate macro-scale response AC. It found that modeling approach captures measured accurately. Accounting for results higher predicted moduli lower angles, thus improving agreement between experimental results. numerical developed provides promising investigating