Study on thermal resistance efficiency of open-graded frictional course pavements based on a laboratory simulated test

The meso-structure of open-graded frictional course (OGFC) can significantly affect the heat transfer characteristics of the asphalt pavement. In this study, a laboratory simulation test device was developed to investigate the effect of aggregate gradations and void ratios on OGFC asphalt pavement heat transfer characteristics. Three aggregate gradations including asphalt concrete, stone mastic asphalt and OGFC were selected for pavement thermal resistance efficiency analysis. In addition, grey correlation theory was used to rate the relationship between different gradation ranges and thermal resistance efficiency. The test results show that this laboratory measurement device provides an effective method for estimating the thermal resistance of asphalt pavements. The OGFC asphalt mixture has the best thermal resistance performance compared to other grades. The air porosity and density have good linear relationship with the average temperature difference increment, and decreasing the density of the asphalt mixture or increasing the air voids content both increase the thermal resistance effect of the pavement.