ABSTRACT
This study shows results obtained from analyzing the mechanical behavior of nonwoven geotextiles as interlayer systems by means of laboratory tests and finite element modeling. As a result, a new methodology for evaluating geotextiles work as interlayer systems was proposed. A disassembled mold was designed to compact the specimens using a vibrating roller compactor. Specimens with a geo-textile embedded at two-third depth from the top of the HMA layer were used in the study. A finite element model of the sample during testing was generated and validated to describe the work of the geo-textile as an interlayer system. Test results showed the moment when geotextiles work as stress attenuator and as reinforcement during testing. To achieve the optimum stress attenuation work, it was probed that the geotextile should be placed in the compression zone of the Hot Mixture Asphalt (HMA) layer and should be adequately impregnated with enough emulsion.
