Many synthetic inclusions have been used within asphalt layers in an attempt to extend the life of pavements by delaying the onset of failure by permanent deformation or cracking. This paper examines the extensive programme of testing and development of a stiff polypropylene geogrid leading to the creation of a new composite material.
A four year programme of research work at the University of Nottingham quantified the benefits of including a stiff
reinforcing geogrid within the pavement.
The major requirement is for the geogrid to interlock with the aggregate and carry tensile forces at low strain for a
considerably longer period of time than the bitumen itself can sustain. This directly reduces the rate of crack propagation and by confining the asphalt particles within the loaded zone can considerably reduce permanent deformation.
By combining a stiff reinforcing geogrid with a geotextile paving fabric, installation is simplified and the overall
performance is improved.
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