A two-way coupled multiscale model for predicting damage-associated performance of asphaltic roadways

This paper presents a quasi-static multiscale computational model with its verification and rational applications to mechanical behavior predictions of asphaltic roadways that are subject to viscoelastic deformation and fracture damage. The multiscale model is based on continuum thermo-mechanics and is implemented using a finite element formulation. Two length scales (global and local) are two-way coupled in the model framework by linking a homogenized global scale to a heterogeneous local scale representative volume element. With the unique multiscaling and the use of the finite element technique, it is possible to take into account the effect of material heterogeneity, viscoelasticity, and anisotropic damage accumulation in the small scale on the overall performance of larger scale structures. Along with the theoretical model formulation, two example problems are shown: one to verify the model and its computational benefits through comparisons with analytical solutions and single-scale simulation results, and the other to demonstrate the applicability of the approach to model general roadway structures where material viscoelasticity and cohesive zone fracture are involved.