Structural Analysis of Flexible Pavements with HMA Exposed to Short-Term Aging

This study presents a comparative evaluation of the structural performance of flexible pavements made from different hot mix asphalt (HMA). HMAs were proportioned using the conventional Marshall method and HMAs subjected to short-term aging were analyzed. Grades B (binder course) and C (surface course), according to DNIT specifications, were used. After determining the aggregate gradation and asphalt content using the Marshall method, test specimens were produced and tested in the laboratory to determine the mechanical parameters characteristic of each HMA (stability, tensile strength by diametral compression, resilient modulus, fatigue behavior, and permanent strain). The Elsym5 software was used to carry out a structural analysis of an assumed pavement, whereby only the mechanical properties of the surface course and the binder course were varied. The results showed that short-term aging significantly affected the mechanical behavior of HMA and the structural response of flexible pavements. Better structural performance was observed in HMAs subjected to short-term aging. The aged specimens showed an improvement in mechanical properties compared to specimens produced by the conventional method, indicating a promising approach for optimizing pavement performance. These results provided new parameters for investigation and development in the field of road engineering.