Two-dimensional digital image correlation for asphalt mixture characterisation: interest and limitations

As a practical and effective tool for quantitative in-plane deformation measurement of a planar surface, two-dimensional digital image correlation (2D DIC) is now widely accepted and commonly used in the field of experimental mechanics. This paper presents an overview of the use of DIC-based techniques for asphalt mixture characterisation reported in the literature. 2D DIC is well suited to analyse asphalt materials mechanical properties because of their anisotropic and heterogeneous nature. Fundamentals of DIC are first briefly described. Specific advantages of using these techniques in a context of asphalt material characterisation are then highlighted. Critical issues that require further research and development are finally examined.