Practical experience with asphalt reinforcing polymer grid and composite airfields

Abstract

A conventional method for rehabilitation of damaged airfields is the installation of new asphalt layers.
Due to external forces from planes and naturally temperature variations, existing cracks or joints
rapidly propagate out of the old pavement into the new asphalt overlay. In order to delay this
phenomenon, known as reflective cracking, polymer reinforcement grid and composite have shown
outstanding results. The reinforcement grid adopts the peak stresses at the crack tip, distributes them
over a larger area and thus retards the crack propagation. The composite enables additionally a stressrelieving
system and a moisture barrier, eliminating or delaying the damage caused by possible water
intrusion. Through basic theory and practical experiences this paper will demonstrate the success and
extended pavement life that can be achieved by using asphalt reinforcement systems in airfield
applications. Special attention is given to the performance on site and the key factors associated with
the effectiveness of the reinforcing material, e.g. the loss of tensile strength due to the paving
procedure, the importance of the bond-strength, and the importance of using alkali-resistant materials
when in direct contact with concrete. The increased pavement life achieved by the use of this
technology not only prevents excessive disruption to traffic flow and local business, but it also
demonstrates strong economic benefits.