Experimental investigation and long-term monitoring of geocell-reinforced roads under freeze-thaw cycles

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Freeze-thaw is a major cause for distress of roads in Canada. This research project is to investigate the use of Neoloy geocells to reduce the risk of freeze-thaw disruption to roads and enhance resilience of roads in cold regions. A fully instrumented road stretch will be constructed to monitor the long-term performance of the geocell-reinforced roads subjected to seasonal freeze-thaw cycles. Meanwhile, a series of laboratory-scale model tests on geocell reinforced soils under freeze-thaw cycles will be conducted by employing controlled thermal and mechanical loading conditions and varying soil conditions. The outcomes of this project include (1) quantifying the beneficial effect of geocells in reinforcing roads against freeze-thaw damage, (2) understanding the underlying reinforcing mechanisms, and (3) development of a design method for geocell-reinforced roads under freeze-thaw cycles. The results of this research will contribute to improvement of the design and construction practices of durable roadways in Canada.