Modelagem da formação e propagação de trincas em misturas asfálticas

Abstract

Cracking in the asphaltic layer has been pointed out as the major pavement distress in Brazilian roadways. Tipically, no consideration for the material heterogeneity has been given on previoues studies. This paper presents a numerical method of analysis, based on the thory of fracture mechanics, in which the asphaltic mixture in considered heterogeneous. The binder and the aggregates are treated as separate elements. The simulations perfomed can be verified and calibrated with simple and conventional laboratory tests. The study investigates crack formation and evolution under monotoic loading. Nevertheless, it also outlines a new method of analysis for fatigue of asphalt mixtures. It is also discussed the use of a multiscale methodology, in which the damage due to cracking in the local scale can be considered in a global analysis at the actual pavement scale.