Presenting new approaches for investigating the lifespan and crack growth behavior in asphalt pavements using fracture mechanics

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Road and Transportation Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology , Tehran, Iran.

2 Department of Road and Transportation Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology , Tehran.

3 Faculty of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran

4 Faculty of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran

Abstract

With the increase in the road transportation fleet, asphalt pavements with longer lifespans have gained significant importance. In this regard, in recent years, the science of fracture mechanics has greatly contributed to the research process in pavement engineering. Based on studies in the technical literature, the SCB and ENDB specimens have been recognized as the top samples for conducting fracture mechanics tests under various pure and mixed-mode conditions. Furthermore, determining fracture toughness is considered the most critical aspect in understanding the condition and estimating the lifespan and behavioral criteria of asphalt pavements. However, most existing research has only focused on investigating the fracture toughness of asphalt specimens with different geometries, fibers, and additives, as well as the effects of specimen size on fracture toughness. Studies have shown that neglecting non-singular stress parameters in classical models can lead to up to 30% error in predicting pavement lifespan. Therefore, employing more advanced approaches such as GMTS, which account for these parameters, is essential. Future research can contribute to reducing maintenance costs and enhancing the durability and efficiency of road infrastructure by improving pavement design and performance prediction.

Keywords

Main Subjects

Journal of Transportation Infrastructure Engineering

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 28 May 2025

Files

History

  • Receive Date: 23 January 2025
  • Revise Date: 11 April 2025
  • Accept Date: 28 May 2025

Share

How to cite

Statistics