A Better Understanding of Asphalt Concrete Response

EQUATION SECTION 1 The necessity of realistic non-linear, three-dimensional material modeling for asphalt concrete is demonstrated by using such a model to simulate two laboratory tests. For this demonstration the Indirect Tensile Test (ITT) and Semi Circular Bending (SCB) test are used, two relatively simple tests that result in a complicated stress state in the specimen. It becomes quite clear that the observed response can not be modeled without realistic damage descriptions. Prior to these examples of model application the material model used for the simulations is presented and its suitability to describe the response of asphalt concrete is verified. This verification is based on the simulation of laboratory tests used to provide the model parameters.