Presenting New Approaches for Investigating the Lifespan and Crack Growth Behavior in Asphalt Pavements Using Fracture Mechanics

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Professor, school of Highway and Transportation Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, I. R. Iran.

2 Assistant Professor, school of Highway and Transportation Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, I. R. Iran.

3 PhD Student in Highway and Transportation Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, I. R. Iran.

4 Associate Professor, school of Industrial Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, I. R. Iran.

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.

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Main Subjects

References

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History

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

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