Investigation of Crack Growth Behavior in Heterogeneous Asphalt Concrete Using FEM Modeling Based on Random Aggregate Generation and Distribution Algorithms

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Department of Civil Engineering, University of Jiroft, Jiroft, Iran

2 Department of Civil Engineering, University of Bonab, Bonab, Iran

3 Department of Civil Engineering, University of Hormozgan, Hormozgan, Iran

Abstract

This study investigates the fracture behavior of asphalt concrete by modeling it as a multiphase material composed of aggregates and mastic. A series of two-dimensional finite element models was developed using a random aggregate generation and distribution algorithm to simulate the heterogeneous microstructure of asphalt mixtures. The generated specimens were analyzed in ABAQUS software, focusing on the evaluation of Mode I and Mode II stress intensity factors (SIFs) and stress distribution in single-edge notched beam (SENB) configurations. The simulation results demonstrate that the spatial distribution of aggregates plays a significant role in determining both the mode and magnitude of SIFs. While the Poisson ratios of the constituents had a negligible effect, their elastic moduli showed a considerable influence on fracture response. As the crack length increased, the stress field became more localized, indicating a shift from distributed elastic deformation to concentrated fracture. Additionally, regions with lower stiffness acted as stress amplifiers, guiding the crack path through weaker zones and intensifying local stress concentrations. These findings underscore the importance of accounting for microstructural heterogeneity in the fracture analysis and design of asphalt mixtures.

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Civil Engineering and Applied Solutions
Volume 2, Issue 1
January 2026
Pages 46-57

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History

  • Receive Date: 21 June 2025
  • Revise Date: 31 July 2025
  • Accept Date: 03 August 2025
  • First Publish Date: 03 August 2025

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