Mixture design and test parameter effect on fracture performance of asphalt: A review

Abstract

Fracture energy is critical for crack evaluation and asphalt mixture design. Thus, the fracture mechanics of asphalt materials should be further investigated. Fracture energy is significantly correlated with factors related to mixture design and testing parameters, as shown in prior studies. Mixture design factors include aggregate gradation and asphalt modification, and test parameters include testing temperature and loading rate. In this systematic review, related studies on the effect of these parameters on the fracture energy of asphalt mixtures are discussed from the perspective of fracture mechanics. Strong relationships between asphalt mixtures’ testing parameters and fracture energy are found in the literature. Moreover, selecting an appropriate loading rate and testing temperature related to the in-service conditions is crucial in evaluating the fracture energy of asphalt mixtures. Good understanding of these relationships can aid in eliminating the fluctuation in the fracture energy results determined in the laboratory. In turn, asphalt’s resistance against cracking can be characterised further.