Microstructure modeling and virtual test of asphalt mixture based on three-dimensional discrete element method

The objective of this work is to model the microstructure of asphalt mixture and build virtual test for asphalt mixture by using Particle Flow Code in three dimensions (PFC3D) based on three-dimensional discrete element method. A randomly generating algorithm was proposed to capture the three-dimensional irregular shape of coarse aggregate. And then, modeling algorithm and method for graded aggregates were built. Based on the combination of modeling of coarse aggregates, asphalt mastic and air voids, three-dimensional virtual sample of asphalt mixture was modeled by using PFC3D. Virtual tests for penetration test of aggregate and uniaxial creep test of asphalt mixture were built and conducted by using PFC3D. By comparison of the testing results between virtual tests and actual laboratory tests, the validity of the microstructure modeling and virtual test built in this study was verified. Additionally, compared with laboratory test, the virtual test is easier to conduct and has less variability. It is proved that microstructure modeling and virtual test based on three-dimensional discrete element method is a promising way to conduct research of asphalt mixture.