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How does FORTGRID ASPHALT geogrid contribute to extending the service life of a pavement?
Asphalt overlays over cracked pavements operate under a scenario of cyclic tensile and shear loadingThis generates the early appearance of cracks reflected on the surface. In this context, geomatrix has developed and evaluated the performance of their FORTGRID ASPHALT geogrids. These geogrids are used as a geogrid system. asphalt reinforcement to control crack propagation and extend pavement life.
FORTGRID ASPHALT geogrid reinforcement against cyclic loading
As shown in Figure 1, asphalt layers are subjected to repetitive loads that generate tensile and shear stresses. The FORTGRID ASPHALT geogrids act as an intermediate barrier that distributes stresses and prevents cracks in the base from reflecting on the surface of the new asphalt overlay. In addition, this principle is widely applied in road infrastructure with geosyntheticsimproving the structural performance of the pavement.
Cyclic tensile and shear loading in asphalt layers on cracked pavements.
Technical performance results
According to evaluations carried out by Walubita (1)(2), the FORTGRID ASPHALT geogrids significantly increase the number of load repetitions required to reach failure. This demonstrates a higher efficiency than fiberglass geogrids, resulting in a greater structural contribution to the pavement. In this way, a reduction of premature deterioration is achieved, as evidenced by the studies of the Transportation Research Board (TRID).
Figure 2. Crack reflection control using FORTGRID ASPHALT geogrids.
The benefit obtained is quantified by the Geogrid Efficiency Factor (GEF)which represents the ratio between load cycles in the reinforced and non-reinforced condition. This indicator, adjusted by a shift factorThe concept of geogrid design, allows the translation of laboratory results to real field conditions, establishing the number of times that the geogrid increases the bearing capacity of the asphalt overlay. This concept is applied in the design of geosynthetic reinforced pavementswhere structural efficiency translates into greater durability and reduced maintenance costs.
Figure 3. GEF efficiency factor results for geogrids.
The characterization of the FORTGRID ASPHALT Geogrid under the standard ASTM D7556 demonstrates its high capacity for elastic recovery throughout the pavement's life cycle. Unlike aged asphalt, which loses its elasticity over time, the geogrid maintains its resistance to permanent deformation, which translates to increased durability, reduced reflective cracking and improved structural performance.
Figure 4. Cyclic tensile modulus results obtained under ASTM D 7556.
In conclusion, the incorporation of the FORTGRID ASPHALT Geogrid in the structure of asphalt pavements represents an important efficient technical solution to extend its service life, control crack reflection and improve its performance under repetitive loads. These advantages, backed up by technical studies and standardized tests, confirm the value of the geosynthetic reinforcement as an essential part of modern road engineering.
EXPERIENCES OF REINFORCEMENT OF ASPHALT LAYERS WITH FORTGRID ASPHALT GEOGRIDS
Photograph 1. Reinforcement of asphalt layer at Avenida Boyacá and Calle 127, Bogotá, Colombia.
Photograph 2. Reinforcement of asphalt layer Calle 7, Cali, Colombia.
Photograph 3. Reinforcement of asphalt layer Palanqueros Air Base.