Fracture properties of asphalt mixture in tension and application

This paper describes the result of tensile test for asphalt mixtures over a wide range of temperature: from the ambient temperature to the temperature as low as -20 degreesC. This paper also describes the application of tensi le test and its size effect. Based on the test results, it was evident, reg ardless of the cross sectional area, tensile strength and temperature were linearly related, and the transition point and tensile strength of asphalt mixtures for unknown rate of strain can easily be estimated by three equati ons. Furthermore, it is considered that fractural behavior such as longitud inal crack in asphalt pavement on orthotropic steel deck bridge and transve rse cracks in cold areas can be estimated based on tensile fracture propert ies.