Evaluation of fracture behavior in cold-mixed semi-flexible pavement using semi-circular bending test and digital image correlation technology

Le résumé fourni par la source

Semi-flexible pavement (SFP) exhibits high structural capacity and excellent rutting resistance due to its composite asphalt–cement framework. However, conventional grouting methods present construction challenges and potential durability issues. Cold-mixed semi-flexible pavement (C-SFP) improves mixture compactness and simplifies production, yet its fracture behavior remains insufficiently characterized. This study examines the fracture performance of C-SFP using semi-circular bending (SCB) tests combined with digital image correlation (DIC). Ten C-SFP mixtures with different emulsified asphalt contents and cementitious binder dosages were prepared. Peak load, peak displacement, fracture energy, and crack resistance index were evaluated, while DIC was used to visualize strain-field evolution and crack propagation. Results show that fracture behavior is strongly governed by the interaction between the asphalt matrix and cementitious grout. Higher cementitious binder dosage increased stiffness but reduced ductility, whereas optimized asphalt film thickness improved fracture energy and delayed crack initiation. Compared with traditional grouted semi-flexible pavement (G-SFP), C-SFP exhibited enhanced interfacial compatibility and superior energy-dissipation capacity. DIC effectively captured the transition from microcrack initiation to macrocrack propagation. These findings provide insight into cracking mechanisms and fracture-resistance enhancement strategies for durable cold-mixed semi-flexible pavements.

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