Advantages of Firmly Bonded Nonwoven/Geogrid Composites in Roadway and Pavement Systems

Firmly bonded nonwoven / geogrid composites are the next generation of geogrids for roadway and pavement systems. Geocomposites are implemented in soft subsoil conditions where reinforcement, separation, filtration and/or drainage are required. Composites are particularly suitable as subgrade stabilization and base reinforcement element in roadway and pavement structures under these conditions. Other common applications are embankment reinforcement and pile cap platforms. A geocomposite allows for direct cost savings when designing a roadway structure with less base course material. The reduction is costs come primarily from reduced base material and excavation is required. A product that is comprised of a geogrid and a geotextile does not require two separate installation processes as is the case with traditional materials. A one step installation process increases overall productivity which results in costs savings. Laboratory and field tests clearly indicate that a firmly bonded geogrid / nonwoven composite provides a tremendous increase in long-term trafficability when compared to roadway structures without geogrid reinforcement, open geogrids and a separately installed geogrid on top of a nonwoven geotextile.