Discrete Element Modeling of Void Content Influence on Asphalt–Wheel Interaction


Authors: Andreea Mioara Mihale, Marius Gabriel Petrescu, Maria Tănase

Abstract: This study investigates the influence of void content on asphalt–wheel interaction using the Discrete Element Method (DEM). A three-dimensional asphalt pavement model, consisting of mineral aggregates (99.5%) and recycled glass (0.5%), was developed to evaluate four void contents (0%, 10%, 15%, and 20%). Contact forces, including adhesive, normal, and tangential components, were analyzed to assess the mechanical response of the pavement. The results show that increasing void content modifies the contact behavior by increasing force fluctuations and energy dissipation while reducing structural stability at high porosity levels. Although higher void contents may promote vibration damping and contribute to noise reduction, excessive porosity compromises mechanical performance. These findings demonstrate that void content is a critical design parameter for balancing mechanical stability and acoustic performance in sustainable asphalt pavements.

Pages: 15-22

DOI: 10.46300/9104.2026.20.3

International Journal of Mechanics, E-ISSN: 1998-4448, Volume 20, 2026, Art. #3

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