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Flexural and Post-cracking behavior of Geogrid-reinforced Concrete Beam for Pavement application

Geosynthetics have been used as reinforcement and stabilization elements in the base and subbase layers of flexible pavements, as well as reinforcement inclusions in asphalt overlays, particularly mitigating rutting reflective cracks. Recently, the use of geogrids as reinforcement elements has expanded into Portland cement concrete (PCC) pavements as an alternative to steel reinforcements. Research conducted so far has indicated that the use of of geogrids as reinforcement in concrete pavements shows both post cracking ductility and superior load capacity. Although this topic is not yet so explored in the literature, the use of geogrids in concrete pavements, pathways, floating slabs or beams is promisor and gives a new employment area for the use of geogrid reinforcements. This paper presents an experimental investigation on the flexural behavior, post-cracking and fracture energy performance of geogrid-reinforced concrete beams under four-point bending test. Triaxial geogrids were embedded at one-third depth of concrete beam specimens (500 × 150 × 150 mm). The PCC mix was prepared using Type I Portland cement with compressive strength of 35 MPa. Results confirmed that the flexural performance and postcracking resistance of the concrete beam specimens reinforced with triaxial geogrids can be improved, as evidenced by load-deflection response and crack mouth opening displacements. Triaxial geogrids showed 11% increase in flexural strength of concrete beam, highlighting the potential benefits of geogrids reinforcements in PCC pavements.