  Digital Image Correlation (DIC) is an optical technique that measures
displacement and strain by tracking pattern movement in a sequence of captured
images during testing. DIC has gained recognition in asphalt pavement
engineering since the early 2000s. However, users often perceive the DIC
technique as an out-of-box tool and lack a thorough understanding of its
operational and measurement principles. This article presents a state-of-art
review of DIC as a crucial tool for laboratory testing of asphalt concrete
(AC), primarily focusing on the widely utilized 2D-DIC and 3D-DIC techniques.
To address frequently asked questions from users, the review thoroughly
examines the optimal methods for preparing speckle patterns, configuring
single-camera or dual-camera imaging systems, conducting DIC analyses, and
exploring various applications. Furthermore, emerging DIC methodologies such as
Digital Volume Correlation and deep-learning-based DIC are introduced,
highlighting their potential for future applications in pavement engineering.
The article also provides a comprehensive and reliable flowchart for
implementing DIC in AC characterization. Finally, critical directions for
future research are presented.
