Laboratory evaluation of flexible pavement structures containing geocomposite drainage layers using light weight deflectometer

Abstract

The behaviour of flexible pavement structures in wet environments is significantly influenced by the infiltration of excess water. The use of geocomposite drainage layers is an alternative to promote rapid removal of any infiltration of excess water. Using four small-scale flexible pavement test sections, this laboratory study focused on measuring the effectiveness of the different configurations of geocomposite drainage layers in terms of reduction in water content and improvement of mechanical properties during a drainage period. The experiment allowed measuring the significant effects of each drainage configuration on pavement structural strength in the short-term and long-term drainage behaviour of each experimental pavement structure. The shallow drainage blanket, as well as the vertical drain, showed a more pronounced effect in the top layer of the structures, while the deep drainage blanket showed a limited effect. From the results obtained, a drainage configuration combining a shallow drainage blanket with a vertical drain may be optimal.