Flexible pavement design in Minnesota requires performance-based mechanistic properties for all layers supporting the asphalt surface. Geogrid increases the aggregate base layer modulus, which is an important property that influences the performance of the asphalt surface. It is expected that more financially effective pavement structures will be constructed in Minnesota by quantifying the benefit of geogrid when it is included in the aggregate base layer. In order to determine this geogrid gain factor, geogrid reinforced and non-reinforced roadway sections in northern Minnesota were tested using a falling weight deflectometer. The field measurements were compared to properties calculated using elastic layer analyses and distinct element analyses. It is anticipated that a simplified geogrid gain factor adjustment will be trialed for MnDOT pavement design on projects where geogrid is being considered.
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