Grey relational-regression analysis for hot mix asphalt design

Before pavement construction, the optimum asphalt content (OAC) of the hot mix asphalt (HMA) must be determined by a mix design. OAC is determined by analyzing six figures developed from the mix design data. However, test data, which depend on materials and equipment, are complex that may cause unsmooth curves of the six figures and, thus, trend line of regression is needed for correction. Pavement engineers tend to agree that OAC determined is not easy and time-consuming to computerize. In this study, an algorithm of the grey relational-regression analysis (GRRA) for HMA is discussed. The concept of GRRA based on grey system theory and polynomial regression is introduced and the equation is derived as well. To identify the analysis algorithm, examples of the asphalt mixture are tested for comparison. The results show that this algorithm is very effective. The algorithm of GRRA can be considered as an alternative to HMA design analysis.

Research highlights
► We produce a method called GRAA based on Grey System Theory for hot mix asphalt analysis to determine optimum asphalt contents.
► To identify the analysis algorithm, examples of mixture design are tested.
► The algorithm of GRRA can be considered as an alternative to HMA design analysis.