Evaluation of geosynthetic reinforced pavements by field and laboratory testing integrated with thermo-hydro-mechanical modeling

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Titan Environmental Containment (TITAN), established in 2006, is a leader in the geosynthetics field in Canada. TITAN conducted a few in-situ evaluations of geogrid-reinforced pavement in Canada and showed that geogrids can mitigate crack propagation. TITAN also developed and deployed composite products of geogrids and geotextiles that has great potential to improve the nation's roadways in Canada's unique geography and environment. Considering there is strong demand for these emerging products, TITAN has partnered with the Center for Pavement and Transportation Technology (CPATT) at the University of Waterloo (UW) in this project toward the development of high-performance pavement geosynthetics. The objectives of the projects include: (1)develop advanced numerical models to investigate the effectiveness of geosynthetics as a reinforcement of pavement; (2) conduct field instrumentation to measure pavement responses and quantify the impact of geosynthetics; (3) predict the long-term performance of geosynthetic-reinforced pavement; (4) develop the design and construction guidelines of geosynthetic-reinforced pavement with updated information on thermal, hydraulic, and mechanical properties of materials. By completion of this research project, the improved geosynthetics for pavement structure will be developed for TITAN. These products are expected to have great potential to reduce compressive and tensile strains caused by traffic loading from above and frost heave from the bottom, leading to the reduction of pavement layer thickness or extension of pavement service life. The project will accelerate deployment of these new technologies in Canada and improve competitiveness of the partner company but also the broader Canadian market for these products. The essential outcome of this research project will benefit Canada in validating and quantifying the benefits of geosynthetic - reinforced pavement, especially in cold regions, when incorporated into the pavement design method and used as the guidance for construction.