Finite element model for crack growth process in concrete bituminous

Abstract : This paper is devoted to a finite element model based on an incremental formulation for viscoelastic resolution, in order to simulate both crack growth initiation and the time crack propagation process. For isotropic symmetries, a complex algorithm is developed within the time domain, requiring a step-by-step calculation of the energy release rate in performing the independent path integral Gθ. The model has been adapted for slow crack growth processes by taking into account viscoelastic properties and progressive crack lip debonding. Applications are proposed for the crack growth initiation and crack tip evolution in bitumen.