348 - Reinforcement of pavements with steel meshes and geosynthetics

The Action was established to forward and enhance the processes of material assessment and design for road construction and maintenance using reinforcement in the bound or un-bound layers. The Action has been investigating the use of reinforcement to improve the in-service performance of roads and highways, for both maintenance and new-build. All kinds of reinforcement types have been considered, along with the most effective methods for assessing pavement performance.

Design models for the structural design of pavements with geosynthetics and steel meshes have been analysed in detail. It became obvious that empirical pavement design methods which are often used, usually consist of tables with standardized input data. These models are calibrated for the specific country/project conditions and have a ling history of performing well under normal conditions and with conventional materials. It is therefore concluded that the introduction of new products into the road construction industry requires semi-analytical or advanced analytical approaches to assess the general condition of pavements with reinforced layers. There is no generally accepted design model available for routine use and the reliability of existing approaches is still under investigation. The review of current practice, test methods and design methods has demonstrated gaps in knowledge which to some extent limit the breakthrough in applying this technology.
Nevertheless, the benefits of using geosythetics and steel meshes in new construction and maintenance of road pavements proved to be promising. This alternative of using reinforcement in construction and maintenance of pavement structures provides significant benefits for road administrations and policy makers, for the environment, the industry and road users. The work done in this COST Action confirmed in all aspects the benefits of pavement reinforcement.

The Action has successfully generated international co-operation between road authorities, research institutes and industry. Over 20 European countries participated in COST Action 348.