Characteristics and strength mechanisms of gussasphalt based on the Mohr–Coulomb theory

Abstract

To reveal the properties and strength mechanism of gussasphalt based on the Mohr–Coulomb theory, a uniaxial penetration test and an unconfined compressive strength test were conducted to calculate the characteristic parameters of gussasphalt strength (cohesion (c), internal friction angle (ϕ) and maximum shear stress (τ max)). By analyzing the effects of asphalt content and temperature on strength parameters, a study of the strength mechanisms of gussasphalt and the differences between gussasphalt and conventional asphalt mixtures was performed. The results showed that gussasphalt was highly affected by the asphalt content and temperature. The shear resistance strength of gussasphalt was stronger than that of conventional asphalt mixtures at 60°C because of the cohesive force of high-viscosity modified asphalt and high ratio of powder and asphalt. The results of shear strength were consistent with the evaluation results of the penetration and increment indices, and the penetration and increment indices were more suitable for evaluating the stability of gussasphalt at high temperatures and characterizing its strength features.