New fatigue test on bituminous binders: Experimental results and modeling

A new fatigue test on bituminous binders was developed in ENTPE/DGCB laboratory in collaboration with the Total company. A prototype of annular shear rheometer is used, as well as an original testing protocol giving access to the evolution of material linear viscoelastic (LVE) properties during fatigue test. An experimental campaign is led on four materials including bitumen and mastics. It is completed by a simulation of LVE complex shear modulus G∗ evolution, using the 2S2P1D analogical model developed at the laboratory. Results allow identifying and characterizing phenomena occurring during fatigue tests. Intrinsic differences between materials fatigue performances can be underlined.

► Analysis of advanced fatigue tests allows quantifying the four occurring phenomena. ► Heating, thixotropy, cyclic hardening & fatigue, which we focus on, are pointed up. ► The three phases observed during fatigue tests are identified and characterized. ► The 2S2P1D model simulates linear viscoelastic modulus changes during fatigue tests. ► Intrinsic fatigue parameters are: fatigue slopes “p” & critical damage “Dcritical”.