Cyclic Loading-Induced Surface Degradation and its Effect on the Frictional Behavior of Tire-Asphalt Contact

Abstract This study investigates the cyclic friction properties of asphalt pavements under repeated loading by developing a custom-designed testing apparatus, which was rigorously calibrated to ensure stability and experimental reliability. Results show that both the frictional force and surface roughness decrease with increasing cycles, exhibiting a clear linear correlation. SEM analysis reveals the formation and accumulation of discrete abrasive particles on the tire surface, identified as a key factor contributing to frictional instability. Based on elastoplastic contact theory, the reduction in surface roughness is attributed to stress concentrations at the boundary layer, leading to material removal and wear particle generation. Furthermore, a spring-slider numerical model was established, and its initial results qualitatively match experimental findings. By adjusting the roughness parameter, the model demonstrates that friction force gradually decreases and stick-slip behavior weakens with increasing cycles, consistent with the experimental trends.