Micromechanical Finite Element Simulation of Asphalt Pavements Skid Resistance Under UAE Temperature Conditions

Abstract

The thesis presents a comprehensive investigation into the micromechanical finite element simulation of asphalt pavement skid resistance under UAE temperature conditions. The study addresses critical gaps in understanding the complex interactions between tires and pavement surfaces, particularly in high temperature conditions in the UAE. A fully coupled thermomechanical finite element model is developed, incorporating a micromechanical representation of the asphalt pavement surface layer, multiple pavement layers, and temperature-dependent viscoelastic properties for both tire rubber and asphalt binder.

The research examines the effects of various factors on skid resistance, including tire load, inflation pressure, vehicle speed, slip ratio, and seasonal temperature variations characteristic of the UAE climate. Advanced finite element techniques are employed to analyze contact behavior and stress distributions in both tire and pavement under diverse conditions. The study also investigates the impact of temperature and other tire factors on braking distance, providing valuable insights for road safety in hot climates.

Key findings reveal that skid resistance significantly decreases in hot weather conditions, with summer exhibiting the lowest values. The micromechanical pavement model demonstrates non-uniform stress distributions and localized stress concentrations, providing a more realistic representation of tire-pavement interactions compared to traditional homogeneous models. Additionally, the research investigates the effect of seasonal temperature variations on braking distance in the UAE. Using the developed thermo-micromechanical finite element model, the study examines how factors such as slip ratio, vehicle speed, tire load, and inflation pressure influence braking distance under different environmental conditions characteristic of UAE seasons. The results reveal significant increases in braking distance during summer months compared to winter and spring, with the magnitude of increase varying based on operational parameters.

This thesis contributes to the field by offering a more nuanced understanding of tire-pavement interactions under very high temperature conditions, thus contributing to the development of improved pavement design strategies and maintenance practices to enhance road safety in hot climates. The findings have significant implications for road authorities, engineers, and vehicle manufacturers, particularly in regions with very high temperature conditions like the UAE. The study concludes with recommendations for future research directions to further advance our understanding of pavement performance in very high temperature climates.

Date of Award	5 Dec 2024
Original language	American English
Supervisor	Tae Yeon Kim (Supervisor)