Title:
Quantitative Analysis of Aggregate Shape Based on Fractals
Author(s):
Lan Li, Paul Chan, Dan. G. Zollinger, and Robert L. Lytton, ACI Materials Journal
Publication:
Materials Journal
Volume:
90
Issue:
4
Appears on pages(s):
357-365
Keywords:
aggregates; aggregate shape and texture; computer programs; construction materials; fractals; shape factor; Materials Research
DOI:
10.14359/3894
Date:
7/1/1993
Abstract:
The characteristics of aggregates of construction materials can have a significant effect on the performance of engineering structures in which they are used, but there are relatively few methods to quantify their contributions to performance. Fractals are a family of mathematical functions that are used to characterize natural phenomena and shapes. This paper suggests a new approach to quantitatively describe aggregate shapes and the change in shape associated with different aggregate types using fractals. The technique is founded on developing a mathematical relationship for the boundary of an aggregate, referred to as a slope density function (SDF). This includes a method of computing the fractal dimension using a grid method consisting of different grid scales and sizes. Using this approach, the fractal dimension may be successfully applied both quantitatively and objectively to characterize aggregate shape.