Disc shaped compact tension (DCT) specifications development for asphalt pavement

Abstract

The disc-shaped compact tension (DCT) fracture energy test has been shown to discriminate between asphalt mixtures with respect to their thermal cracking potential. This research refines the DCT fracture energy testing procedure, identifies needed adjustments in asphalt mixture to increase fracture energy, determines the suitability of DCT-test-based parameters as indicators of reflective cracking, and proposes threshold values to lower the potential for premature reflective cracking in asphalt overlays. A number of recommendations have been developed to implement outcomes of this research as well as to fill knowledge gaps identified through this study.