Finite element modeling of reflective cracking under moving vehicular loading: Investigation of the mechanism of reflective cracking in hot-mix asphalt overlays reinforced with interlayer systems

The fracture mechanism of reflective cracking in hot-mix asphalt (HMA) overlay was investigated using a three-dimensional finite element model utilizing the cohesive zone model. The effectiveness of interlayer systems to abate reflective cracking in overlays was evaluated. A fractured area due to potential reflective cracking was calculated at a region in which cohesive elements were inserted. A represent fracture area (RFA) is introduced as a weighted average value of degradation to calculate the fractured area. Utilizing global and local RFAs, the mechanism of reflective cracking is investigated for HMA overlay with interlayer systems. For various interlayer systems, this study found that different reflective cracking patterns occurred in terms of quantity and distribution. The sand mix interlayer reduces reflective cracking in leveling binder at the beginning; however, steel netting interlayer retards reflective cracking in wearing surface as well as leveling binder.