Computation of pseudo strain energy and Paris law fracture coefficients from surface energy and uniaxial strain-controlled tension test data

Abstract

Dissipated pseudo strain energy (DPSE) and Paris' law fracture coefficients constitute input parameters for fracture characterization of hot-mix asphalt concrete (HMAC) mixtures in continuum fracture-damage mechanics and energy based fatigue analysis approaches. In this paper, numerical analysis models for computing DPSE and Paris' law fracture coefficients from surface energy (SE) and uniaxial strain-controlled tension test data are presented. The applicability of the DPSE, Paris' law fracture coefficients, and the associated laboratory tests for comparatively quantifying HMAC mixture fracture properties including investigating the effects of aging is also presented. Analysis of the results indicated that the models utilized together with the computed parameters and the related laboratory tests provide a fundamental methodology of comparatively characterizing the fracture properties of HMAC mixtures. The numerical values obtained were within theoretical expectations. The results further showed that aging has a detrimental effect on the HMAC mixture fracture properties. However, more HMAC mixture characterization is recommended to further validate the general applicability of the models and the associated laboratory tests.

Keywords:

• Fracture
• Mechanics
• Pseudo strain energy
• Surface energy
• Uniaxial
• Aging

Acknowledgements

This study was conducted as part of a Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) research project to comparatively evaluate and recommend an appropriate fatigue design and analysis approach for HMAC mixtures subjected to specific loading and environmental conditions in a particular pavement structure. The authors thank TxDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for their support in funding this research study and all Texas Transportation Institute (TTI) and Texas Engineering Experimentation Station (TEES) personnel for their help during the course of this research work. The various TxDOT district offices that provided the material mix-designs and assistance in material procurement are also thanked.

Notes

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Additional information

Notes on contributors

Lubinda F. Walubita

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Gregory S. Cleveland

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Robert L. Lytton

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