Modeling Effects on Reinforcement of Lateral Confinement of Roadway Aggregate

Abstract

Finite element response models for geosynthetic base-reinforced pavements have most commonly been developed by direct inclusion of structural elements for the reinforcement sheet and contact surfaces between the reinforcement and surrounding materials. Models established in this fashion have historically shown a gross underprediction of pavement performance and corresponding benefit from the reinforcement. This indicates that fundamental mechanisms and processes involved in reinforced pavements are missing from a simple static, single load cycle response model analysis of the type described above. In particular, processes involving interaction of the reinforcement with surrounding pavement materials during construction and compaction of the base aggregate layer, and during repeated loading by vehicular traffic is absent from a simple analysis of the reinforced pavement. These processes lead towards the development of lateral confinement of the base aggregate layer that is otherwise absent or greatly diminished in pavements without reinforcement. This paper describes distinct response model modules created to account for effects of reinforcement on lateral confinement of base aggregate materials during roadway compaction operations and in-service vehicular loading. The combination of these response model modules results in a rational method for evaluating the performance of base-reinforced pavements. Results from the method are compared to several cases of observed reinforced pavement performance in previously constructed test sections.