Geocell Road Construction for Stronger Pavements
In geocell road construction, when a load acts on the “subgrade,” the soil does not deform if the shear strength of the subgrade is greater than the applied load. A road pavement system usually consists of 1 or more material layers. These layers reduce the pressure transferred to the subgrade. Granular material can transfer loads to the subgrade because its aggregate particles interlock. When lateral forces push the granular material outward, ruts or wheel tracks form. These ruts make the layer thinner, eventually causing the pavement system to fail.
Geocell road construction suits the characteristics of geocell, which can confine fill material. Geocell is the most effective option for preventing lateral aggregate movement under cyclic loads. Hoop stress generated around each cell creates a stiffer layer by increasing the elastic modulus of the fill material. Research by Professor K. Rajagopal of IIT, Madras, India, in “Studies on Geocell Reinforced Road Pavement Structure” found that the elastic modulus of the fill material increases 2.75 times when geocell is installed over soft soil.
The confinement effect of geocell distributes the load over a larger area, increasing subgrade bearing capacity and reducing settlement. The compacted fill material acts like a semi-rigid slab over soft soil. As shown in the following diagram, the “beam effect” created by geocell reduces pressure on the subgrade.
3D confinement also benefits the drainage system. Water can pass through each cell, while the fill material remains contained so the pavement system continues to function.
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