Use of jute geotextiles in road construction

Abstract

In this study, jute geotextiles have been used in two different applications related to road construction. In one application, open mesh type untreated geojute has been used to stabilize the road slopes from raindrop erosion until the vegetations are established. Both laboratory testing and field trial have been undertaken for this purpose. All the test data and observations suggest that the geojute and vegetation system reduces the surface runoff by 85% and reduces the eroded soil particles by 93% in comparison to an exposed slope. The system is also eco-compatible and cost-competitive. But periodic maintenance is necessary to get the desired result. In another application, woven type treated DW Twill has been used for the purpose of subgrade soil reinforcement of a flexible pavement. A systematic laboratory investigation and field trial has been carried out. The test results show that the CBR value increases by 1.5 times with the application of jute geotextiles in subgrade soil. This finding has been used in design and construction of a segment of road following the guideline practiced in Bangladesh. The study reveals that higher cost competitiveness of jute geotextiles reinforced subgrade may be obtained for CBR values less or equal to 2.0. Therefore, by ensuring adequate long term durability through appropriate treatments already evolved, jute geotextiles may be envisaged as a potential material for subgrade soil reinforcement applications.