Mechanical Characterization and Performance Prediction of Fiber-Modified Asphalt Mixes

In the pursuit of enhanced pavement performance, this study focuses on the integration of aramid synthetic fibers (ASF) into asphalt concrete mixtures, a modern adaptation within the asphalt industry. Utilizing two distinct groups of North Carolina DOT-approved mixtures, both fiber-reinforced (FRAC) and non-fiber-reinforced, with a fiber concentration of 0.5 kg/1000 kg, comprehensive tests were conducted using the Asphalt Mixture Performance Tester (AMPT). These included dynamic modulus, stress sweep rutting, and cyclic fatigue assessments. Subsequent long-term performance predictions were made with FlexPAVE™ version 1.1 across three pavement configurations. The findings highlight the potential of para-aramid fibers in enhancing fatigue resistance and overall long-term performance. However, rutting resistance improvements remain inconclusive. Conclusively, simulation insights reveal asphalt layer coefficients for the FRAC in North Carolina to vary between 0.46 and 0.58, contingent on pavement type and primary distress factors.