A volumetrics thresholding algorithm for processing asphalt concrete X-ray CT images

This paper presents an automated digital image processing technique for capturing the microstructure of asphalt concrete (AC) from X-ray computed tomography images. It applies to circular cross-section images of AC cores of known volumetrics. Its innovation is that it uses the volumetric properties as the main criterion for establishing grey-level thresholds for the boundaries between air-mastic and mastic-aggregates. The algorithm, implemented in MATLAB™, involves three stages. The first stage involves image pre-processing for contrast enhancement and noise removal. The second stage is the main thresholding routine accepting as input the enhanced images of the first stage and volumetric information for the AC. It consists of two components, namely volumetrics-driven thresholding and 3D representation/sectioning. The third stage further enhances particle separation through edge detection and image segmentation. Examples were provided in imaging actual AC cores of known volumetric properties. The algorithm was shown to produce realistic rendering of the microstructure of ACs. Their quality is suitable for input into numerical simulation.

• Record URL:
  • https://doi.org/10.1080/10298436.2011.561345
• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/oclc/44544515
• Supplemental Notes:
  • Abstract reprinted with permission from Taylor & Francis.
• Authors:
  • Zelelew, H M
  • Papagiannakis, A T
• Publication Date: 2011-12

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures; References;
• Pagination: pp 543-551
• Serial:
  • International Journal of Pavement Engineering
  • Volume: 12
  • Issue Number: 6
  • Publisher: Taylor & Francis
  • ISSN: 1029-8436
  • Serial URL: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals/titles/10298436.html

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Aggregates; Algorithms; Asphalt concrete; Asphalt concrete pavements; Asphalt mixtures; Flexible pavements; Image processing; Mastic asphalt; Microstructure; Mix design; Proportioning; Tomography; Volumetric analysis
• Identifier Terms: MATLAB (Computer program)
• Uncontrolled Terms: Thresholds; X-ray computed tomography
• Subject Areas: Highways; Materials; Pavements; I31: Bituminous Binders and Materials; I36: Aggregates;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01358922
• Record Type: Publication
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 16 2011 2:47PM