Finite-Element Modeling of Skid Resistance Test

The British pendulum test is one of the most common laboratory test methods for the determination of low-speed microtexture-related skid resistance properties of pavement surface materials. This paper presents the development of a three-dimensional finite-element model that simulates the British pendulum test. The procedures for determining different model parameters are described. Besides the constant parameter values representing the characteristics of the British pendulum tester, only a relatively simple static friction test is needed to provide the necessary input to the computer model. Three different pavement materials were studied in the model validation program. Results of the validation program showed that there was very good agreement between the laboratory measured British pendulum test data and the computed values by the finite-element model. The output variables verified included the energy loss, British pendulum number (BPN), sliding distance, time taken to cover the sliding distance, inclination of rubber slider, and contact pressure. The findings suggest that the skid resistance BPN of a pavement material can be determined without having to physically perform the British pendulum test.