Abstract
Concrete pavement structures are subjected to a complex combination of environmental and traffic loads which produce a unique distribution of stresses at the critical mid-slab edge. Moreover, the fracture propagation caused by this unique distribution of stresses is a complex process because it is both size and load history dependent. In this study, a series of quasi-static, constant and variable amplitude fatigue tests on simply supported single edge notched beam specimens were conducted. It is shown that variable amplitude testing can providea comprehensive assessment of fatigue life because the R-ratio, peak stress intensity, and load history effects can be assessed. The results of this study also suggest that the fatigue resistance curve under variable amplitude has a similar quality to that under constant amplitude loading; there is a positive decreasing slope that asymptotes to a zero slope condition beyond the critical crack extension. However, the results show the magnitude of the critical crack extension and the maximum fracture resistances are not the same under the two different loading conditions.
Published Version
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