Wicking and reinforcing behaviour of a novel wicking nonwoven geotextile – geogrid composite

Excess water in the road base can lead to damage to roads from several mechanisms including decreasing stiffness of road base, freeze-thaw cycles, and swelling/shrinking of subgrades in expansive soils. Reducing the time that a pavement system is saturated is known to increase the lifespan of roads. Recent innovative geosynthetic products can further remove water from base materials due to suction or “wicking”. A novel geosynthetic product has been developed consisting of a wicking nonwoven geotextile bonded with a geogrid. The objective of this research is to test and quantify its wicking abilities and to determine its ability to improve performance of pavements with expansive subgrades. It is anticipated that this novel wicking geotextile – geogrid composite will improve drainage in unsaturated soil and limit differential subgrade swelling in expansive soil. The outcomes can increase adoption of wicking geosynthetics in Canada and increase lifespan of roads.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jamie Bartz;Marolo Alfaro

Student:

Partner:

Titan Environmental Containment

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Construction and infrastructure; Manufacturing; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Manitoba

Program: