SPR 2013 Prime KTC: Geotextile and Geogrid Use

In recent years, several issues related to geotextile and geogrid in Kentucky use on highway projects have been identified. These include: 1) Development of the appropriate specifications for geogrids and geosynthetics. 2) Development of usage guidelines for both geogrids and geosynthetics. Geotextiles and geogrids have been the subject of extensive research and are widely accepted in the transportation industry. A geotextile is typically defined as any permeable textile material used to increase soil stability, provide erosion control or aid in drainage. Modern geotextiles are usually made from a synthetic polymer such as polypropylene, polyester, polyethylene and polyamides. Geotextiles can be woven, knitted or non-woven. A geogrid is designed to have tensile strength to distribute loads over a wider area, increasing the load capacity of the soil. These geogrids have typically been used in construction of roadway subgrades and bases in addition to being used as reinforcing elements within embankments. Geogrids are typically used to provide tensile strength and confinement to aggregate or soil layers. There has been much discussion relating to what products should be utilized in different situations and what the specifications for these products need to be. Many material vendors have their own design and specification systems, therefore a uniform means to incorporate these items. The objectives of this research will be as follows: 1) An in-depth review on current specifications and usage guidelines used by other Departments of Transportation nationwide. 2) Development of a user guide for both geotextiles and geogrids to assist design engineers, specification writers, construction inspectors and maintenance personnel with the selection, design and construction of geotextile and geogrid involved projects.