Comparison of Methods to Retard Reflective Cracking in Bituminous Concrete Using Fabrics and Fibers

摘要

The Purpose of the project was to determine whether any of various uses of geotechnical fabrics and fibers significantly retard reflective crack formation in an asphaltic concrete overlay. Four paving fabrics, one fiberized-asphalt membrane, and one fiber-reinforced asphaltic concrete, were the treatment alternatives evaluated. Construction monitoring indicated that contractor application experience was a significant factor affecting both efficiency and adequacy of placement of paving fabrics. It was also apparent that heat-bonded fabrics were somewhat more difficult to place due to wrinkling. Performance was evaluated at 8 months, 26 months, and 44 months after construction. All treatments retarded cracks over the evaluation period, although the amount and rates of reduction varied. Based on the extent of cracking evident after the 44-month survey and considering current and proposed crack sealing costs, in addition to the documented construction costs, none of the treatments used on the project are now considered cost-effective. Therefore, these treatments are not recommended for use to retard reflective cracking in asphalt concrete overlay, particularly when the base is identified as significantly block-cracked.