Numerical Simulation for Synergetic Deformation of Optical Fiber Sensor and Asphalt Mixture

Owing to the structural and material differences, data obtained by distributed optical fiber sensors (OFS) for asphalt pavement strain measurement lack of precision. For better understanding OFS measurement mechanism and investigating the measurement error correction, this study analyzed the synergetic deformation of OFS and asphalt mixture (AM) under load. Firstly, a three-dimensional AM single-edge notched beam (SEB) model with OFS was established and verified using the discrete element method. Secondly, the micro-crack propagation of SEB model during loading procedure was analyzed to explore the debonding behavior between OFS and AM. Thirdly, strain development of OFS and AM was investigated during fracture stage and post-fracture stage. Finally, a measurement error correction method was developed based upon the materials and test conditions in this study. Results demonstrate that debonding occurs on OFS surface when macro-crack extends across OFS position. The key to making the strain measurement accuracy is to ensure the effective bonding between OFS and AM. In addition, this study provides a framework used to develop the measurement error correction, and the research results give the theoretical foundation for data selection and error correction of asphalt pavement strain measurement and crack detection using distributed optical fiber sensors.