Influence of Interlayer Bonding Conditions Between Base and Surface Layers on Structural Mechanics Response of Asphalt Pavements

Abstract

The interlayer bonding strength between a cement-stabilized macadam (CSM) base and an asphalt surface layer significantly influences asphalt pavement performance. This study analyzes the calculation method for the interlayer bonding coefficient, investigates its impact on pavement structural response, and proposes a threshold value. Pavement mechanics software was first employed to analyze horizontal displacement at the CSM-asphalt interface, leading to a proposed method for calculating the bonding coefficient using initial stress and displacement derived from interlayer shear tests. Subsequently, the bonding coefficient was evaluated under three interface conditions: untreated, emulsified asphalt-treated, and SBS-modified hot asphalt-treated. Results reveal substantial inherent bonding strength even in untreated interfaces. SBS-modified hot asphalt increased bonding strength by 40–50% compared to untreated interfaces and by 15–20% relative to emulsified asphalt-treated interfaces. Analysis of varying bonding coefficients demonstrates that insufficient CSM-asphalt bonding readily induces asphalt layer fatigue cracking, with bonding strength exerting the dominant influence on fatigue life. Pavements with SBS-modified hot asphalt interlayers exhibited approximately 70% longer fatigue life than untreated interfaces and 30% longer than emulsified asphalt-treated interfaces. Crucially, an interlayer bonding coefficient exceeding 5000 MPa/cm is required for layers to be considered fully bonded.

Keywords

• asphalt pavement
• interlayer bonding
• interlayer shear test
• bonding coefficient
• cement-stabilized macadam (CSM)