Fracture characterization of hot-mix asphalt by indirect ring tension test

The Indirect Ring Tension (IRT) geometry was utilized for fracture characterization of hot mix asphalt. The primary advantages of this innovativeand yet practical test include: relatively high fracture surface area, simplicity of the specimen geometry, widespread availability of the required test equipment, and ability to test laboratory compacted specimens as well as field cores. The results of an extensive finite element analysis were encapsulated in a single equation. To verify the finite element models, a laboratory test experiment was conducted. The capability of the IRTtest to capture the effects of loading rate and test temperature on the fracture properties of HMA was evaluated. Fracture toughness and fracture energy of the mixtures weremeasured at various temperatures and loading rates. The proposed test is fully capable of capturingthe transition of mixture to the quasi-brittle phase. Furthermore, the test produced a straight crack growth pattern on a consistent basis.