Geotextiles are engineered fabrics that are used in a variety of civil engineering and construction projects. In road construction, geotextiles have a number of important applications.
Geotextiles for highways
One common use of geotextiles in road construction is for reinforcement. Geotextiles can be used to reinforce soil in order to improve its strength and stability. For example, geotextiles can be used to reinforce embankments and slopes, to stabilize subgrades, or to provide a base for roads, bridges, and other structures. Geotextiles can also be used to reinforce asphalt and concrete, helping to improve the durability and lifespan of these materials.
Another use of geotextiles in road construction is for separation and filtration. Geotextiles can be used to separate different layers of soil or aggregate, helping to prevent the mixing of materials and ensuring that each layer performs its intended function.
Specific geotextile products are available for installation on a bituminous tack coat to act as a stress absorbing membrane interlayer. This layer absorbs stresses and reduces the amount of cracking due to deformations.
Finally, geotextiles are used in road construction for drainage. Geotextiles can be used to create a drainage layer that allows water to pass through and evacuate the structure while still providing structural support. This is particularly useful in areas with high levels of precipitation, as it helps to prevent the build-up of water and minimizes the risk of damage to the road. This is often used in combination with a drainage system next to the road, such as a drainage trench or Findrain.
Conclusion
Overall, geotextiles are a versatile and valuable tool in road construction, with a number of important applications including reinforcement, filtration, separation, and drainage.