Full-scale field tests on geosynthetic reinforced roads on soft subgrade

The use of geosynthetics as reinforcement for the base layer of flexible pavement systems has grown steadily over the past thirty years. Although geosynthetic reinforcements can lead to improved pavement performance, the specific conditions or mechanisms that enable and govern the reinforcement are unclear, largely remaining unidentified and unmeasured. In this study, the assessment of the effect of geosynthetics on the pavement structural that is reinforced granular fill layer over soft clay soil, section's ability to support traffic loads were investigated using field tests. The improved performance of pavements due to addition of geosynthetics was attributed to the ability of geosynthetics to laterally restrain the base course material, thereby providing a confinement effect to the pavement. The results of the field tests show that mechanical reinforcement as is an effective method in reducing rutting and repairing granular fill layer overlying soft subgrade. However, additional monitoring of the constructed test section is needed to verify the long term performance and evaluate the effect of higher traffic load and freeze-thaw cycles.