Performance of wicking geosynthetics on pavements in cold regions

Excess water can damage roads by weakening the aggregate base soil or underlying native soils, from formation of ice in colder regions, and causing ground to swell where expansive soils are encountered. Relatively new products called wicking geotextiles can improve drainage and remove water through suction to prevent these causes of road damage. These products are polymer fabric sheets which are laid down under the road prior to construction. There is little experience with wicking geotextiles for road conditions and pavement design typical in Winnipeg, Manitoba which include expansive clay subgrade soil and a subdrain system. It is unknown how effective wicking geotextiles are at removing water in local pavement systems and how they can be implemented in pavement design. It is anticipated that the City of Winnipeg can reduce the thickness of aggregate base soil and use more recycled aggregate resulting in environmental benefits and cost efficiencies.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jamie Bartz

Student:

Partner:

City of Winnipeg

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Public administration

University:

University of Manitoba

Program: