A mixture design approach of hydraulic asphalt concrete considering regional deformation characteristics.

The stress distribution and deformation characteristics of asphalt concrete cores (ACC) under seismic loading exhibit regional variations, rendering uniform HAC mix proportions unsuitable for construction applications. Consequently, systematic optimization of core mix proportions during design stages is crucial to enhance deformation compatibility in asphalt concrete core dam (ACCD) structures. Mix proportion design should be performance-driven, with customized formulations developed in response to distinct deformation mechanisms observed across core wall zoning sections. In this paper, Niya Dam is taken as a case study, we adopt the engineering analogy method to summarize the stress-strain characteristics of core wall by comparing two similar projects. Subsequently, on the basis of analogy analysis, the core wall of Niya Dam is divided into three zones: large shear deformation zone, main active deformation zone, and strong seismic risk zone. In addition, the ability of core walls to adapt to large deformation is improved by optimizing mix proportions for different areas. Finally, three-dimensional finite element method is utilized to structural safety analysis. The results show that the settlement of the core wall is relatively small after the design earthquake, and the stress level is within the safe range, which demonstrate the feasibility and potentials of the proposed method.