Scaled Meso-structure Finite Element Simulation and Homogenized Parameters Deduction of Fiber-Modified Asphalt

To improve the simulation efficiency of the fiber-modified asphalt, the scaled meso-structure finite element simulation and the homogenized parameters deduction of basalt fiber-modified asphalt are investigated in this paper. First, the meso-structure finite element model is briefly introduced, along with the concept of the optimum fiber simplification number, which reflects the actual fiber agglomeration effect and reduces the simulation time. Second, the scaled fiber models cut from the original one are simulated and compared against each other, in terms of the mesh complexity and the calculation burden. Third, the directly generated scaled models are analyzed. Finally, the Mathematical iteration method is employed to directly derive the homogenized parameters of the basalt fiber-modified asphalt. The results indicate that the simulation data closely align with the experimental one under the optimum fiber simplification number. The mesh complexity of the scaled model cut from the original one increases, and it is acceptable to use the 1/3× scaled cut model, and the 2/3× scaled directly generated model for practical engineering applications. Furthermore, the homogenized parameters of the fiber asphalt deduced through the Mathematical iteration method are accurate. This study offers valuable insights for the efficient analysis of similar fiber-modified composite materials.