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Mesoscopic Modeling of Fracture in Heterogeneous Bituminous Polymer Composites: Coupling Random Aggregate
Wenjing Li1, Hang Gao2, Linyu Xie1
1College of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Beijing University of Technology, Beijing 100124, China.
Polymers
|May 13, 2026
Summary
This study simulates fracture in asphalt composites using a new numerical model. Larger, angular aggregates improve fracture resistance by increasing energy dissipation, but high aggregate content can reduce overall toughness.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Civil Engineering
- Computational Mechanics
Background:
- Fracture in bituminous polymer composites is governed by microstructural complexity and asphalt's viscoelasticity.
- Understanding these factors is crucial for designing durable asphalt materials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a numerical framework for simulating fracture mechanics in heterogeneous asphalt composites.
- To investigate the influence of aggregate characteristics on the fracture behavior of these materials.
Main Methods:
- Coupling a random polygonal aggregate distribution algorithm with a bilinear cohesive zone model (CZM).
- Experimental validation using frequency sweep and semi-circular bending (SCB) tests.
- Multi-scale parametric analysis of aggregate gradation, volume fraction, and shape.
Main Results:
- High percentages of large aggregates delay fracture by increasing crack-bypassing energy dissipation.
- Increased aggregate volume fraction enhances peak strength but reduces post-peak capacity and fracture work.
- Angular aggregates offer superior fracture blocking compared to rounded ones.
Conclusions:
- The developed numerical framework provides an efficient tool for optimizing composite structures.
- Aggregate characteristics significantly influence the fracture mechanics and performance of asphalt composites.
- Insights into internal stress states and macroscopic fracture behavior are crucial for material design.
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