LAUSR

The digital image correlation (DIC) technique as a displacement and strain measurement method is one of the newest measurement technologies employed in asphalt pavement testing. Although DIC was introduced for material testing in the early 1980s; this technology is not yet being used to its highest potential as a reliable and flexible method for measuring displacements and strains and, more importantly, for investigating cracking phenomena and fracture characteristics in asphalt pavement testing. This research aimed to study the requirements for ensuring a reliable and accurate DIC system and to demonstrate areas where the technique could be used to provide an edge over traditional measurement methods. Using proprietary two-dimensional DIC software, the parameters that affect the accuracy of test results were evaluated and the proper analysis configurations for investigating cracked areas were determined. The results showed that the DIC technique, if used properly, is an extremely powerful tool for studying damage progression and fracture characteristics in the fatigue and fracture testing of asphalt concrete.