A mathematical model for predicting stripping potential of Hot Mix Asphalt

Stripping - the most important mode of Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) failure - is a problematic issue in the pavement performance and its maintenance. Identification and quantification of the pertinent parameters influencing on stripping process is a prerequisite for dealing with it effectively. Previous studies on stripping potential of HMA have focused on this issue based on empirical/semi-empirical models. In the present work Response Surface Methodology (RSM) was used for the study and optimization of pertinent factors, namely bitumen content employed, grading and lime content, in the stripping process of HMA. Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) was chosen as the response for the evaluation of stripping potential of HMA using a Central Composite Design (CCD). The statistical analyses showed that second order polynomial models can successfully describe the relationship between the response and factors and the maximum Tensile Strength Ratio (TSR) is achieved at 5.73% bitumen content, 1.84% lime content and 65.30% of the materials passing sieve size 4.75 mm.