ABSTRACT
Limited research exists on the benefits of using geogrids to reinforce Portland cement concrete structural and non-structural members. Concrete pavement overlay is one application where the use of geogrids can potentially enhance performance. Preliminary research findings have shown that the inclusion of geogrids in Portland cement concrete leads to a definitive improvement in the post-cracking behavior in terms of ductility, load capacity, and crack propagation control. Through a rigorous experimental program, this study aims at verifying and further enhancing the current knowledge regarding the behavior of geogrid-reinforced concrete elements compared to that of plain concrete and steel-reinforced elements. Findings are used in characterizing the behavior of geogrid-reinforced concrete and applying it through a finite element model. The model is then used to predict the behavior of a geogrid-reinforced concrete overlay and compare it to that of a conventional plain concrete overlay over a given flexible pavement structure.
