INVESTIGATION OF FABRICS AND BITUMINOUS SURFACES FOR USE IN MESL CONSTRUCTION

The objectives of this study were to develop and test new waterproof membranes and pavement surfacings for membrane-enveloped soil layers (MESL) and to establish design criteria for their use. Three separate test series were conducted at the Waterways Experiment Station (WES) circular test facility. Various test items containing new membranes for MESL and items containing MESL with different pavement surfacings were tested. Test traffic was applied using a load cart equipped with a military truck, dual-wheel assembly loaded to simulate an 18-kip axle load. Test results showed that both cationic and anionic emulsified asphalts are suitable for use in upper membranes for MESL. However, the rapid- and medium-curing grades of cutback asphalts are not suitable. Several nonwoven fabrics were found suitable for use with emulsified asphalt for constructing wearing membrances for MESL. Design criteria regarding membranes and wearing surfaces are offered.

• Corporate Authors:

  U.S. Army Waterways Experiment Station

  3909 Halls Ferry Road
  Vicksburg, MS  United States  39180-6199
• Authors:
  • Webster, S L
  • Andress, R A
• Publication Date: 1976-8

Media Info

• Features: Figures; Photos; References; Tables;
• Pagination: 68 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Bituminous materials; Design; Emulsified asphalt; Fabrics; Membrane encapsulated soil layers; Surface treating; Waterproofing materials
• Uncontrolled Terms: Design criteria
• Old TRIS Terms: Bituminous surfacing
• Subject Areas: Design; Geotechnology; Highways; Materials;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00142381
• Record Type: Publication
• Report/Paper Numbers: Rpt No. S-76-14 Final Rpt.
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Dec 15 1976 12:00AM