Freeze–Thaw durability and micro–macro performance evaluation of ECC pavement overlays with varying thicknesses
ROAD MATERIALS AND PAVEMENT DESIGN, pp.1-24, 2026 (SCI-Expanded, Scopus)
- Publication Type: Article / Article
- Publication Date: 2026
- Doi Number: 10.1080/14680629.2026.2722148
- Journal Name: ROAD MATERIALS AND PAVEMENT DESIGN
- Journal Indexes: Scopus, Materials Science & Engineering Collection (ProQuest), Technology Collection (ProQuest), Science Citation Index Expanded (SCI-EXPANDED), Compendex, ICONDA Bibliographic, The International Construction Database (ICONDA)
- Page Numbers: pp.1-24
- Eskisehir Osmangazi University Affiliated: Yes
Abstract
This study examines how Engineered Cementitious Composites (ECC) overlay thickness influences freeze-thaw (F-T) durability under laboratory-scale conditions. Unlike studies focusing on bulk ECC behaviour or overlay applications without thickness-dependent evaluation, this work uses an integrated micro-macro framework relating microstructural observations to structural response. Concrete specimens overlaid with 2 and 4 cm ECC layers were subjected to 25 and 50 F-T cycles in accordance with ASTM C666. Performance was evaluated using bulk density, ultrasonic pulse velocity (UPV), compressive, tensile and flexural strength, ductility, fracture energy, shear resistance, dynamic fracture energy, and scanning electron microscopy/energy-dispersive spectroscopy (SEM/EDS). ECC overlays mitigated F-T-induced deterioration, but performance was thickness-dependent. The 2 cm overlay better preserved bulk density and UPV, whereas the 4 cm overlay provided superior strength retention, ductility and energy absorption. Microstructural observations supported qualitative micro-macro interpretation of fibre-matrix interfacial degradation and performance-based thickness selection.