Coatings

Editorial

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Open AccessEditorial

Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering

by Jiujiang Wu and Wenjie Jiang

Coatings 2026, 16(5), 592; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16050592 (registering DOI) - 13 May 2026

Pavement materials and civil engineering constitute the backbone of modern infrastructure systems, directly supporting economic development, urbanization, and societal resilience [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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Research

Jump to: Editorial, Review

17 pages, 6286 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Hierarchical ZnO/PAC Nanosheets on the Rheological Performance of SBS-Modified Asphalt

by Kunpeng Zhao, Yi Leng, Qinxi Dong, Yongling Ding, Huadong Sun, Chunbao Ding, Ping Song, Yanan Ni, Chunyu Wang and Hong Yin

Coatings 2026, 16(5), 520; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16050520 - 26 Apr 2026

Viewed by 279

Abstract

To improve the rutting resistance and low-temperature cracking performance of polymer-modified asphalt under extreme conditions, hierarchically structured ZnO-loaded porous activated carbon (ZnO/PAC) nanosheets were introduced as a synergistic reinforcing agent for SBS-modified asphalt. The ZnO/PAC hybrids were synthesized via template-assisted carbonization followed by [...] Read more.

To improve the rutting resistance and low-temperature cracking performance of polymer-modified asphalt under extreme conditions, hierarchically structured ZnO-loaded porous activated carbon (ZnO/PAC) nanosheets were introduced as a synergistic reinforcing agent for SBS-modified asphalt. The ZnO/PAC hybrids were synthesized via template-assisted carbonization followed by hydrothermal growth, and their effects were evaluated by microscopic characterization and rheological tests, including temperature sweeps, multiple stress creep and recovery (MSCR), and bending beam rheometer (BBR) analyses. ZnO was successfully anchored onto the PAC, forming a three-dimensional flower-like nanostructure. Among the investigated samples, ZPS3 with 3 wt.% ZnO/PAC showed the best overall performance. At 64 °C, the rutting factor increased from 4.2 kPa for the SBS-modified asphalt to 6.8 kPa for ZPS3, representing a ~62% enhancement and indicating markedly improved high-temperature deformation resistance. MSCR results further confirmed the superior rutting resistance of ZPS3, which exhibited the highest recovery and the lowest non-recoverable creep compliance. In addition, BBR results showed that the low-temperature performance grade improved from −12 °C for conventional the SBS-modified asphalt to −18 °C for the ZnO/PAC-modified system. These results demonstrate that ZnO/PAC nanosheets can effectively enhance both the high-temperature rutting resistance and low-temperature cracking resistance of SBS-modified asphalt. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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22 pages, 6836 KB

Open AccessArticle

Utilization of Water-Based Drill Cuttings Stabilized by a Novel Composite Stabilizer for Pavement Base Applications

by Shucheng Tan, Hua Wen, Hua Tang, Wentao Fu, Xiaoyan Guo, Biaotian Bai, Jiujiang Wu and Xiaoyu Tan

Coatings 2026, 16(4), 406; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16040406 - 27 Mar 2026

Viewed by 477

Abstract

Water-based drill cuttings generated during onshore natural gas development are complex solid wastes that may pose environmental risks if improperly managed. This study evaluates the feasibility of reutilizing water-based drill cuttings as pavement base materials after stabilization using a novel composite stabilizer composed [...] Read more.

Water-based drill cuttings generated during onshore natural gas development are complex solid wastes that may pose environmental risks if improperly managed. This study evaluates the feasibility of reutilizing water-based drill cuttings as pavement base materials after stabilization using a novel composite stabilizer composed of cement, stabilizer liquid agent, and water-reducing powder (CLP stabilizer). Mix proportion optimization was conducted through compaction and 7-day unconfined compressive strength tests, followed by evaluation of road performance, including strength, compressive rebound modulus, water stability, and temperature shrinkage, with stabilized powder stabilized soil as a control. Microstructural characteristics were analyzed using X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, and environmental safety was assessed through heavy metal leaching tests and background soil investigation. The results show that the optimal mixture ratio of curing agent (5% cement + 2% liquid stabilizer + 8% superplasticizer powder) satisfies the strength requirement for pre-drilling road bases, exhibiting superior performance compared to the control group. When the stabilizer dosage reaches 9%, the 7-day unconfined compressive strength achieves a maximum of 3.38 MPa, representing a 51% increase over the control group. At a stabilizer dosage of 12%, the splitting tensile strength reaches a peak value of 0.901 MPa, showing a 60.3% improvement. These results indicate enhanced deformation resistance, water stability, and reduced temperature shrinkage rates. Microstructural analysis indicates that the formation of calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) gel and ettringite (AFt phase) leads to a denser structure and enhanced durability. Heavy metal concentrations comply with relevant standards, demonstrating controllable environmental risks and supporting sustainable pavement base application. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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23 pages, 7632 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Hydrophobic Alkyl Chain Length on the Interfacial Adhesion Performance of Emulsified Asphalt–Aggregate Systems

by Haijiao Xu, Pinhui Zhao, Wenyu Wang, Zhiyu Zhang, Jingtao Shi, Dongqi Yu, Hongbo Cui, Deshang Huang and Jiawei Su

Coatings 2026, 16(3), 330; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16030330 - 8 Mar 2026

Viewed by 811

Abstract

To elucidate the mechanisms by which the hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain length of emulsifiers and the surface properties of aggregates influence the adhesive performance at the emulsified asphalt–aggregate interface, this study employed molecular dynamics simulations to construct interface models. Key parameters, including relative concentration, [...] Read more.

To elucidate the mechanisms by which the hydrophobic hydrocarbon chain length of emulsifiers and the surface properties of aggregates influence the adhesive performance at the emulsified asphalt–aggregate interface, this study employed molecular dynamics simulations to construct interface models. Key parameters, including relative concentration, diffusion coefficients, and interfacial adhesion work, were systematically analysed to reveal the intrinsic effects of imidazoline-type emulsifier chain length and aggregate type on interfacial behaviour. The results indicate that increasing the hydrophobic chain length of the emulsifier suppresses the adsorption of emulsified asphalt at the aggregate interface. The diffusion coefficients of both emulsifier and asphalt molecules initially increase and subsequently decrease with chain length, with the non-polar asphalt components (aromatics and saturates) exhibiting greater sensitivity to chain length variations. Moderate extension of the hydrophobic chain enhances interfacial adhesion work, whereas exceeding the optimal chain length reverses this trend, weakening adhesion. Aggregate surface properties exert a significant influence on interfacial behaviour. Compared with the acidic SiO₂ (0 0 1) surface, the basic CaCO₃ (1 0 4) surface exhibits lower peak relative concentrations of emulsified asphalt, reduced sensitivity to variations in emulsifier chain length, lower molecular diffusion coefficients, and stronger interactions with asphalt molecules, resulting in superior interfacial adhesion. This study provides a molecular-level theoretical basis for the targeted design of emulsifier structures and the efficient adaptation of emulsified asphalt to different aggregate systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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20 pages, 9140 KB

Open AccessArticle

Numerical Modeling of the Relationship Between Mechanical Properties and Void Morphology in Porous Asphalt Mixtures

by Hongchang Wang, Haozhe Wu and Congying Liu

Coatings 2026, 16(2), 214; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16020214 - 6 Feb 2026

Viewed by 359

Abstract

Traditional macroscopic test methods (e.g., uniaxial compression and indirect tensile strength tests) cannot accurately describe the internal microstructure and its influence on the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures from a microscopic perspective. With the advancement of digital image processing (DIP) techniques and numerical [...] Read more.

Traditional macroscopic test methods (e.g., uniaxial compression and indirect tensile strength tests) cannot accurately describe the internal microstructure and its influence on the mechanical properties of asphalt mixtures from a microscopic perspective. With the advancement of digital image processing (DIP) techniques and numerical simulation methods, relatively complete workflows for microstructure characterization and mesostructural evaluation of composite materials have been established. In this study, a three-dimensional finite element model incorporating voids was developed using the Monte Carlo method and ABAQUS software to investigate the relationships between void morphology, distribution, and the mechanical properties of porous asphalt mixtures. By varying void size and shape in the model, correlations between mesostructural stress–strain characteristics and void morphology were derived. The stress distribution around aggregates and damage initiation trends in the mesostructure were summarized. The relationship between the anticipated strength (numerically assessed) of porous asphalt mixture and the void ratio was established through simulations of models with varying void ratios. Finally, a micromechanical model for porous asphalt mixture with optimized mechanical performance is proposed, featuring an icosahedral void shape, a void diameter range of 3–4 mm, and a void ratio of 18%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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24 pages, 2270 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Dynamic Properties of the Polyurethane Mixture with Open-Graded Gradation

by Haisheng Zhao, Bin Wang, Peiyu Zhang, Yong Liu, Chunhua Su, Mingzhu Xu, Wensheng Zhang and Shijie Ma

Coatings 2026, 16(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16020153 - 24 Jan 2026

Viewed by 440

Abstract

Polyurethane (PU) mixtures exhibit superior mechanical performance compared to traditional asphalt mixtures, owing to the excellent engineering properties of the PU binder. This study investigates the dynamic rheological properties of an open-graded polyurethane mixture (PUM–OGFC) in comparison with a dense-graded polyurethane mixture (PUM–AC). [...] Read more.

Polyurethane (PU) mixtures exhibit superior mechanical performance compared to traditional asphalt mixtures, owing to the excellent engineering properties of the PU binder. This study investigates the dynamic rheological properties of an open-graded polyurethane mixture (PUM–OGFC) in comparison with a dense-graded polyurethane mixture (PUM–AC). The time–temperature superposition principle and three rheological models (Standard Logistic Sigmoid (SLS), Generalized Logistic Sigmoid (GLS), and Havriliak–Negami (HN)) were employed to construct and analyze master curves. The results show that while PUM–AC possesses a higher dynamic modulus, PUM–OGFC exhibits a lower phase angle, indicating a more elastic response. Critically, PUM–OGFC demonstrated superior rutting resistance, as evidenced by its higher rutting parameter (|E*|/sin δ). Aggregate gradation significantly influenced all rheological properties. The master curve analysis further revealed that PUM–OGFC exhibits greater temperature sensitivity than PUM–AC. The SLS and GLS models provided excellent fits for both dynamic modulus and phase angle data, whereas the HN model was suitable only for dynamic modulus. In summary, the open-graded structure, when combined with a PU binder, creates a high-performance composite with an exceptional balance of elasticity and rutting resistance, showcasing its potential for demanding pavement applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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18 pages, 2051 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Desulfurized Crumb Rubber–Modified Epoxy Asphalt

by Yi Zhao and Peixing Yang

Coatings 2026, 16(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16010102 - 13 Jan 2026

Viewed by 715

Abstract

Epoxy asphalt, as a thermosetting material, has received increasing attention due to its outstanding mechanical properties and durability. However, its insufficient low-temperature resistance, limited toughness, and relatively high material cost still restrict its large-scale application in pavement engineering. To improve its low-temperature performance [...] Read more.

Epoxy asphalt, as a thermosetting material, has received increasing attention due to its outstanding mechanical properties and durability. However, its insufficient low-temperature resistance, limited toughness, and relatively high material cost still restrict its large-scale application in pavement engineering. To improve its low-temperature performance and reduce construction costs, this study investigates the low-temperature behavior of epoxy asphalt modified with desulfurized crumb rubber. In this study, a functional additive, hereafter referred to as WJFL (a laboratory-designated organic disulfide-based rubber plasticizer), was incorporated during the preparation of the desulfurized rubber–asphalt binder to enhance the curing rate of the modified epoxy asphalt. The addition of WJFL promotes the devulcanization and activation of rubber powder, enhancing the overall performance of the modified epoxy asphalt. When the desulfurized rubber content is 20%, WJFL additive dosage is 2%, and asphalt content is 300% of epoxy resin mass, the modified epoxy asphalt not only meets the specification requirements but also exhibits excellent low-temperature crack resistance and improved economic efficiency. The addition of crumb rubber increased tensile strength by 15.38% and elongation at break by 17.24%. Furthermore, WJFL additive increased tensile strength by 80% and elongation at break by 25% when WJFL content was increased from 0% to 2%. Additionally, optimizing the asphalt-to-epoxy ratio, with asphalt content increased from 100% to 300%, resulted in an 80% increase in tensile strength and a 28.57% improvement in elongation at break. Moreover, desulfurized crumb rubber modification enhanced the low-temperature stiffness modulus, highlighting better performance in cold regions. Relaxation tests conducted at −10 °C, −15 °C, −20 °C, and −25 °C show that the modified epoxy asphalt has significant potential for use in pavement surfacing, particularly in cold climates. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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11 pages, 2273 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanism of Immersion Crushing on Alkali-Silica Reaction (ASR) in Glass Mortar

by Kai Yan, Yuanbo Song, Lianfang Sun, Qian Zhang and Tianfeng Yuan

Coatings 2025, 15(12), 1398; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15121398 - 30 Nov 2025

Viewed by 656

Abstract

The utilization of waste glass as an aggregate in cement-based materials provides both environmental and economic benefits, but the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) caused by the reactive silica in glass aggregates is a significant challenge for its application. This study investigates the impact of [...] Read more.

The utilization of waste glass as an aggregate in cement-based materials provides both environmental and economic benefits, but the alkali-silica reaction (ASR) caused by the reactive silica in glass aggregates is a significant challenge for its application. This study investigates the impact of different crushing methods on the ASR of glass aggregate mortar, with a focus on the effect of immersion crushing using calcium chloride (CaCl₂) solution. Glass aggregates were prepared using conventional crushing, water immersion crushing, and CaCl₂ immersion crushing methods. The ASR expansion and compressive strength of the mortar were evaluated through accelerated ASR tests, compressive strength testing, and microstructural analysis using SEM/EDS and mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP). Results show that immersion crushing significantly mitigated ASR expansion and the associated loss in compressive strength. The CaCl₂ immersion method yielded the most pronounced effect. Compared with conventional crushing, it reduced the ASR expansion by approximately 45% and improved the compressive strengths by approximately 20%. Microstructural analysis revealed that the CaCl₂ treatment led to a higher Ca/Si ratio in the ASR gel, which reduced the gel’s water-absorbing swelling ability and consequently suppressed ASR-induced expansion. Additionally, the CaCl₂ immersion crushing method resulted in the smallest changes in porosity and pore size distribution. These findings provide a theoretical basis for the safe use of waste glass in cement-based materials and contribute to the promotion of resource recycling in the construction industry. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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27 pages, 2204 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Volatile Organic Compound Emission Characteristics of Crumb Rubber-Modified Asphalt

by Hu Feng, Haisheng Zhao, Dongfang Zhang, Peiyu Zhang, Yindong Ding, Yanping Liu, Chunhua Su, Qingjun Han and Yiran Li

Coatings 2025, 15(9), 1043; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15091043 - 5 Sep 2025

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 2313

Abstract

Crumb rubber used in asphalt modification can generally improve the road performance of asphalt mixture pavement while offering substantial environmental and economic benefits. This study investigates the volatile organic compound emissions from crumb rubber-modified asphalt binders via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, focusing on the [...] Read more.

Crumb rubber used in asphalt modification can generally improve the road performance of asphalt mixture pavement while offering substantial environmental and economic benefits. This study investigates the volatile organic compound emissions from crumb rubber-modified asphalt binders via gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, focusing on the effects of crumb rubber types (e.g., activated crumb rubber, non-activated crumb rubber), contents, and additives (warm-mix agents, deodorants, styrene–butadiene–styrene (SBS)). The analysis encompasses total volatile organic compound emissions, compositional variations, secondary organic aerosol and ozone formation potentials, and carcinogenic risks. Results indicate that non-activated crumb rubber increases volatile organic compound emissions initially, peaking at a 15% content (3.99 times higher than base asphalt), dominated by trichloroethylene. The surfactant-based warm-mix additive significantly reduces emissions by 73%, whereas deodorants exhibited limited efficacy. At equivalent contents, activated crumb rubber-modified asphalt emits more volatile organic compounds than non-activated crumb rubber-modified asphalt and leads to a higher ozone formation potential. Activated crumb rubber/SBS-modified asphalt blends reduce emissions by 69%–81% due to synergistic effects. In contrast, non-activated crumb rubber/SBS blends increase emissions, likely due to phase separation. All samples contain carcinogens, primarily trichloroethylene (20%–79%) and benzene (0.1%–9%). These findings underscore the critical importance of crumb rubber activation status and SBS addition in controlling volatile organic compound diffusion. The activated crumb rubber/SBS combination achieves a synergistic reduction exceeding the sum of individual effects (“1 + 1 > 2”). These findings provide valuable insights for designing eco-friendly asphalt. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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25 pages, 9769 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mesoscale Mechanical Analysis of Concrete Based on a 3D Random Aggregate Model

by Shuaishuai Wei, Huan Zhang, Ding Wang, Xuchun Wang and Mengdi Cao

Coatings 2025, 15(8), 883; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15080883 - 29 Jul 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 2028

Abstract

The shape, size, and interfacial transition zone (ITZ) of aggregates significantly impact the nonlinear mechanical behavior of concrete. This study investigates concrete’s mechanical response and damage mechanisms by developing a three-dimensional, three-phase mesoscale model comprising coarse aggregates, mortar, and ITZ to explore the [...] Read more.

The shape, size, and interfacial transition zone (ITZ) of aggregates significantly impact the nonlinear mechanical behavior of concrete. This study investigates concrete’s mechanical response and damage mechanisms by developing a three-dimensional, three-phase mesoscale model comprising coarse aggregates, mortar, and ITZ to explore the compressive performance of concrete. A method for simulating the random distribution of aggregates based on three-dimensional grid partitioning is proposed, where the value of each grid point represents the maximum aggregate radius that can be accommodated if the point serves as the aggregate center. Aggregates are generated by randomly selecting grid points that meet specific conditions, avoiding overlapping distributions and significantly improving computational efficiency as the generation progresses. This model effectively enhances the precision and efficiency of aggregate distribution and provides a reliable tool for studying the random distribution characteristics of aggregates in concrete. Additionally, an efficient discrete element model (DEM) was established based on this mesoscale model to simulate the compressive behavior of concrete, including failure modes and stress–strain curves. The effects of aggregate shape and maximum aggregate size on the uniaxial compressive failure behavior of concrete specimens were investigated. Aggregate shape has a particular influence on the compressive strength of concrete, and the compressive strength decreases with an increase in maximum aggregate size. Combined with existing experimental results, the proposed mesoscale model demonstrates high reliability in analyzing the compressive performance of concrete, providing valuable insights for further research on the mechanical properties of concrete. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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18 pages, 22617 KB

Open AccessArticle

Experimental Study on Pipeline–Soil Interaction in Translational Landslide

by Tianjun Xue, Lingxin Liu, Jianlei Zhang, Mengjie Dai, Gengyuan Shi and Xinze Li

Coatings 2025, 15(5), 537; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15050537 - 30 Apr 2025

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1644

Abstract

Pipelines in landslide-prone areas are highly susceptible to damage or rupture under soil movement, posing severe threats to social stability and national security. However, research on pipeline failure mechanisms across different landslide types remains insufficient. Therefore, this study employs large-scale indoor model tests [...] Read more.

Pipelines in landslide-prone areas are highly susceptible to damage or rupture under soil movement, posing severe threats to social stability and national security. However, research on pipeline failure mechanisms across different landslide types remains insufficient. Therefore, this study employs large-scale indoor model tests to investigate the interaction mechanisms between pipelines and soil (pipeline–soil interaction) in translational landslide zones through comparative experiments. The results indicate that: (1) The failure process of translational landslides is characterized by initial sliding at the slope crest under loading, which progressively drives the lower soil mass, ultimately resulting in global slope instability. The sliding mass displacement exhibits a top-to-bottom reduction pattern. (2) Pipelines traversing slopes laterally significantly enhance slope stability by providing measurable anti-sliding resistance. (3) Pipeline displacement under sliding mass action occurs in the downslope direction, yet its trajectory deviates from the sliding mass movement. (4) Strain analysis reveals that the pipeline experiences peak strain in the middle region of the sliding mass and at the sliding-non-sliding interface, with the middle region being the primary location for initial yielding and fracture. This study advances the understanding of pipeline-sliding mass interaction mechanisms in translational landslides and offers critical insights for improving pipeline safety and reliability. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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14 pages, 4445 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of Macroscopic Composition on the Performance of Self-Compacting Concrete

by He Liu, Wenxi Li, Haonan Zou, Wei Bian, Jingyi Zhang, Ji Zhang and Peng Zhang

Coatings 2025, 15(2), 161; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15020161 - 2 Feb 2025

Viewed by 1045

Abstract

In recent years, there has been significant interest in the development of self-compacting concrete (SCC). This study views SCC as a two-phase composite material and introduces a new aggregate spacing coefficient model based on the concept of Fullman’s mean free path and stereological [...] Read more.

In recent years, there has been significant interest in the development of self-compacting concrete (SCC). This study views SCC as a two-phase composite material and introduces a new aggregate spacing coefficient model based on the concept of Fullman’s mean free path and stereological theory. The validity of the aggregate spacing coefficient model was verified. The relationship between the fine and coarse aggregate coefficients and the properties of SCC are revealed. The results show that the slump and slump flow of SCC increase as the fine and coarse aggregate coefficients increase. The coarse aggregate spacing coefficient has a significant influence on the compressive strength and drying shrinkage of SCC. A significant linear relationship between the coarse aggregate spacing coefficient and SCC dry shrinkage properties is revealed. Compared to the conditional mixing proportion method, which considers the aggregate volume as a control factor, the aggregate spacing coefficient takes into account the aggregate volume and gradation, which can more accurately reflect the characteristics of the aggregate. Meanwhile, this new perspective on the macroscopic composition of SCC provides insights into the controlling factors of its performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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17 pages, 3180 KB

Open AccessArticle

Settlement Prediction for Cast-in-Place Tubular Piles with Large Diameters Based on the Load Transfer Approach

by Jiujiang Wu, Lin Xiao, Jifeng Lian and Lijuan Wang

Coatings 2025, 15(1), 70; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15010070 - 10 Jan 2025

Viewed by 3388

Abstract

Large-diameter cast-in-place tubular piles offer high efficiency and adaptability for various engineering applications. Despite their widespread use, the bearing behavior of these piles remains complex due to the interactions with the internal soil core, and the related theoretical framework is not yet fully [...] Read more.

Large-diameter cast-in-place tubular piles offer high efficiency and adaptability for various engineering applications. Despite their widespread use, the bearing behavior of these piles remains complex due to the interactions with the internal soil core, and the related theoretical framework is not yet fully developed. In this study, a simplified load transfer model is proposed based on the pile–soil interaction mechanism of large-diameter tubular piles. Comprehensive load transfer models for the skin friction and end resistance of both the pile body and the soil core are established, supported by a detailed theoretical analysis. A novel three-criteria approach is introduced for the first time to enhance settlement predictions for large-diameter tubular piles by considering the displacement coordination mechanism of the internal soil core, addressing the limitations of traditional two-criteria methods. The proposed methods are validated through two engineering case studies, demonstrating their effectiveness and confirming their rationality and applicability in practical scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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22 pages, 6005 KB

Open AccessArticle

A New Method for Evaluating Liquefaction by Energy-Based Pore Water Pressure Models

by Jianlei Zhang, Qiangong Cheng, Haozhen Fan, Mengjie Dai, Yan Li, Jiujiang Wu and Yufeng Wang

Coatings 2025, 15(1), 7; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings15010007 - 24 Dec 2024

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1841

Abstract

Liquefaction-induced damage can be mitigated through remediation methods, contingent upon a thorough evaluation of liquefaction, which necessitates comprehensive investigation. This paper presents a novel energy-based pore pressure model for the assessment of liquefaction potential, utilizing cyclic triaxial numerical tests. In this model, the [...] Read more.

Liquefaction-induced damage can be mitigated through remediation methods, contingent upon a thorough evaluation of liquefaction, which necessitates comprehensive investigation. This paper presents a novel energy-based pore pressure model for the assessment of liquefaction potential, utilizing cyclic triaxial numerical tests. In this model, the energy of the earthquake is quantified using the Arias intensity. The validity of the energy-based pore pressure model was corroborated by the results of cyclic triaxial tests. Based on the validated model, a new methodology that incorporates permeability and the shear stress reduction coefficient was proposed for the evaluation of liquefaction potential. This new approach was further validated through centrifuge tests and numerical simulations. The findings indicate that the proposed method can accurately predict the generation and accumulation of excess pore pressure, thereby demonstrating its efficacy in evaluating ground liquefaction potential. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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13 pages, 2206 KB

Open AccessArticle

Study on Infrared Spectrum Analysis of Asphalt Aging Based on Full Spectrum Segmentation

by Hao Zhou, Pinhui Zhao, Qiang Xu, Kechao Han, Guixia Zhang, Jipeng Cui, Weikun Meng and Wenxin Wu

Coatings 2024, 14(12), 1505; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings14121505 - 29 Nov 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1597

Abstract

Infrared spectroscopy is an effective method for studying asphalt aging. To improve the effectiveness of infrared spectroscopy in asphalt aging, this paper first performs preprocessing of the infrared spectral signals and divides the full spectrum into six segments. By quantitative analysis of the [...] Read more.

Infrared spectroscopy is an effective method for studying asphalt aging. To improve the effectiveness of infrared spectroscopy in asphalt aging, this paper first performs preprocessing of the infrared spectral signals and divides the full spectrum into six segments. By quantitative analysis of the relation of noise and signals of different segments, a correlation model between noise and errors was established and a reasonable signal analysis range was determined. A stable method for describing the aging degree, which is based on the area change values of the infrared spectral curve over a wide wavelength range, was determined, and the aging model was established. Based on the relationship between PAV aging and natural aging, a model has been established to describe the relationship between the spectral area increase and aging in the asphalt pavement aging process. This model can be used to determine the actual service time of the asphalt pavement through infrared spectral analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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Review

Jump to: Editorial, Research

34 pages, 1985 KB

Open AccessReview

Multiscale Rheological Properties of Pavement Asphalt: A State-of-the-Art Review

by Qiqi Zhan, Zuoyang Cheng, Xuejuan Cao, Qing Liu, Ying Yuan, Lihong He and Junfeng Gao

Coatings 2026, 16(3), 355; https://doi.org/10.3390/coatings16030355 - 11 Mar 2026

Viewed by 408

Abstract

Asphalt rheological properties are fundamental to pavement performance, yet their accurate assessment requires multi-scale characterization due to asphalt’s inherent complexity. This article reviews the connections between asphalt rheology across chemical, microstructural, and macro-mechanical scales, employing a methodological analysis of supramolecular and colloidal models [...] Read more.

Asphalt rheological properties are fundamental to pavement performance, yet their accurate assessment requires multi-scale characterization due to asphalt’s inherent complexity. This article reviews the connections between asphalt rheology across chemical, microstructural, and macro-mechanical scales, employing a methodological analysis of supramolecular and colloidal models for micro-scale behavior and dynamic shear rheometry for macro-scale properties. Current research confirms asphalt as a complex multiphase continuum, where micro-scale rheology is explained by intermolecular interactions and colloidal structures, while macro-scale analysis successfully characterizes linear viscoelasticity through established empirical and mechanical models. However, the study identifies critical gaps: nonlinear viscoelastic characterization under large-amplitude oscillatory shear (LAOS) remains underdeveloped, and fundamental issues like directly probing molecular interactions and the origin of microstructures like the “bee structure” are unresolved. The primary conclusion is that a comprehensive understanding of asphalt rheology hinges on future research that integrates experimental and simulation data across these scales to bridge the gaps between chemical composition, microstructure, and macroscopic performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Pavement Materials and Civil Engineering)

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