Stress Relief Asphalt Layer and Reinforcing Polyester Grid as Anti-reflective Cracking Composite Interlayer System in Pavement Rehabilitation

Abstract

An anti-reflective composite interlayer system, composed by a stress relief asphalt layer and a reinforcing polyester grid, was discussed based upon the results of field and laboratory research programs. The stress relief asphalt layers dissipate the stresses in the cracks tip, and reduce vertical and horizontal displacements of the subjacent crack in the new overlay. Polyester grid is a high tensile strength material that slows or even stops the reflective crack in the overlay. The field research program consisted of a highway trial section subjected to an accelerated test by using a transit simulator (HVS – Heavy Vehicle Simulator). A wheel reflective cracking test was carried out in laboratory, using the Displacement Meter CAM (Crack Activity Meter) to measure the horizontal and vertical movements on the crack or joint slab during the wheel load cycles. The results showed that both relief asphalt layer and reinforcing polyester grid work together as composite solution, technically and economically viable, which delay or block the crack reflection.