Mechanistic Sieve-Size Classification of Aggregate Gradation by Characterizing Load-Carrying Capacity of Inner Structures
Publication: Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 145, Issue 9
Abstract
To choose the maximum dividing sieve sizes for multiscale analysis, a mechanistic classification principle of sieve sizes is developed to characterize the size ranges of four inner structures in an aggregate’s gradation. A theoretical model of interlock check and stress evaluation is also established to evaluate the contact and interactive-filling status between the identified structures. Then, a discrete element (DE) simulation of triaxial compression tests of graded aggregates is built to validate the mechanistic classification principle. The contact force is extracted to calculate the contribution of each sieve size to bear the load and stabilize the structure. The size ranges of inner structures can be determined by the combined analysis of force occupation curves and mechanistic classification principle. The results show that the dividing sieve sizes for four gradations in the main classification system are different, but they are the same in the subclassification system. The sieve-size classification principle along with DE simulation can provide a basis of choosing appropriate sieve sizes to conduct multiscale analysis of asphalt mixtures and asphalt pavements.
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Acknowledgments
The authors gratefully acknowledge Professors Bjorn Birgisson and Robert L. Lytton at Texas A&M University for valuable assistance in conducting this study. The study is financially supported by Scientific Research Foundation of Graduate School of Southeast University (YBJJ1841), the China Scholarship Council (No. 201706090166), the Open Fund of State Engineering Laboratory of Highway Maintenance Technology (Changsha University of Science & Technology, kfj160104), Natural Science Foundation of Jiangsu (BK20161421), and the National Natural Science Foundation of 363 China (No. 51378006).
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Published In
Journal of Engineering Mechanics
Volume 145 • Issue 9 • September 2019
Copyright
©2019 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Sep 27, 2018
Accepted: Jan 16, 2019
Published online: Jul 9, 2019
Published in print: Sep 1, 2019
Discussion open until: Dec 9, 2019
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