Developing a Comparative Model for Predicting Fatigue Life of Candle Wax Modified Hot Mix Asphalt Concrete Mixtures: Heavy Traffic Case

Enwuso A. Igwe

Department of Civil Engineering, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Nkpolu Oroworukwo

P.M.B 5080, 5080, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria Tel: +2348037077751; Email: igwe2002@yahoo.

Accepted 03 June 2014

Abstract

Asphalt concrete mixtures are usually used for simulative analysis and study of asphalt concrete pavements. This composite structure (asphalt concrete pavement) is a complex system involving multiple layers of materials having various combinations of stresses such as irregular loading of traffic, temperature disturbances, moisture intrusions and oxidation encumbrances. Therefore, a realistic determination of its service life can be a challenging task for highway engineers. In simple terms, the service life of asphalt concrete pavements generally relates to their fatigue life. Thus, the accurate prediction of pavement fatigue life has become an area of growing concern. This paper attempts to develop a comparative model that can be safely used in line with prescribed laboratory experiments such that fatigue life can be predicted for a modified asphalt concrete mixture using candle wax. The results obtained from the Comparative Derived Model clearly nearly replicates that obtained by the Asphalt Institute Model which has been generally accepted and used for years now. On this basis the Derived Model can be said to be valid within the limits of the study.

Keywords: Fatigue Life, Comparative Model, Prediction, Candle Wax and Asphalt Concrete