Multiscale finite element computational model and microscopic stress analysis of asphalt pavement structures
Changhong Zhou, Weitong Meng, Mingyue Cao, Cong Peng · Mechanics of Advanced Materials and Structures · 2025
The Finite Element Method (FEM) is an essential tool for analyzing the stress response of asphalt pavements under vehicle loads. However, traditional FEM approaches often struggle with achieving efficient and accurate analysis when dealing with large-scale asphalt pavement structures due to limitations in computational resources and the complexity of mesh generation. In this paper, based on the Traditional Multiscale Finite Element Method (MsFEM), we have developed a multi-scale finite element calculation model for asphalt pavement structures that captures the micro-characteristics of key material areas while effectively balancing computational costs with analysis accuracy. The paper first introduces the technical framework of this model. Then, using a three-layer pavement structure under dual-wheel load as an example, it presents a coupling system between MsFEM and traditional FEM at the coarse mesh level. The analysis examines the impacts of surface layer thickness, coarse aggregate content, and asphalt mortar modulus on the macroscopic and microscopic distributions of pavement mechanics. Finally, the model’s performance is compared with that of a locally refined finite element calculation in terms of computational scale and time. The results demonstrate the model’s efficiency in large-scale asphalt pavement structure analysis and its good compatibility with traditional FEM. The model also provides methodological guidance for the design of other composite materials and their layered structures.