Reflection crack resistance of geogrid reinforced bituminous concrete under simulated repeated loads

Reflection cracking is a notable factor in flexible pavements, which will compromise their real-life performance and durability. This study focuses on evaluating the performance of bituminous concrete mixes for the Bituminous Concrete layer prepared by conventional materials. Gradations of natural aggregates were prepared and tested for their mechanical properties using Marshall stability tests to determine the Optimum Bitumen Content. Beams of dimensions 500mm × 100mm × 100mm were casted with 2-dimensional geogrid reinforcement and tested under reflection crack simulator, integrating the cams with upliftment heights and gap of 5 mm, 10 mm & 15 mm combinations to mimic the condition of repeated wheel loads. The tests reveal that the performance of bituminous concrete beams, such that when they are subjected to lower upliftment heights and higher gaps shown better resistance to reflection cracking, while increased upliftment heights and lower gaps resulted in earlier failure. Further, the 2-dimensional geogrid insertion as reinforcement in beam has shown the better performance than beam without geogrid for all upliftment heights. The study highlights the innovative testing method to evaluate the durability of flexible pavements.