This report presents a review of current asphalt fatigue life prediction models, including the laboratory fatigue test methods and conditions and the data analysis approaches used in the development of the models. The asphalt mixture variables that influence the fatigue life, and their contribution to the predictive approaches, are described in the report. Factors contributing to the higher fatigue life observed in the field than that measured in the laboratory have also been reviewed. The current fatigue life prediction models developed by the Asphalt Institute, Shell and SHRP researchers are based on laboratory fatigue relationships. Any deviation from these may produce a different estimate of predicted life.
Prediction models based on dissipated energy approach to fatigue are also available.
However, these need to be validated through observed field performance. The Shell and SHRP models could be readily applied, after verification, to Australian mixes because of the availability of similar equipment and test methods locally. There is a strong need for further investigation of the effects of volumetric properties, rest periods, healing and ageing, and multi-axle loading on the fatigue performance of indigenous asphalt mixes with conventional, multigrade and modified binders. There is a lack of quantitative information on the long-term field performance of asphalt mixes with conventional and other binder types. This information would assist in the estimate of shift factors and hence in the determination of the appropriate pavement thickness.