Influence of geosynthetic-interlayers on the performance of asphalt overlays on pre-cracked pavements

The functions of geosynthetic-interlayers in retarding reflection cracking and improving fatigue performance of hot mix asphalt (HMA) overlays in flexible pavements are evaluated in this study. The delamination or debonding mechanisms of the overlays are studied when geosynthetic-interlayers are adopted. A polyester grid coated with polymer modified binder (G1), a woven geo-jute mat (G2), and a bi-axial polypropylene grid (G3) interlayer are examined based on their adhesion properties. A two stage experimental program, in which, during the first stage, the performance of the geosynthetic-interlayers sandwiched between the pre-cracked old pavement and new asphalt layers are evaluated using flexural fatigue testing. A digital image correlation (DIC) technic was employed to record the failure modes and the corresponding tensile strains in the overlay system. During the second stage, the effect of interlayers on the interface bond strength was evaluated with the help of shear and tensile bond strength tests. The results show that the inclusion of interlayers retards the propagation of reflection cracking, however, results in the delamination of overlays. The debonding effect is prominent in G3 interlayers due to their high initial stiffness. Overall, interlayers with high interfacial shear and pull-off tensile bond properties proved effective in controlling the reflection cracking and increasing fatigue life of the overlays.