Improving subgrade stabilization and moisture management in roadways

Overview 

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Camarines Sur 2nd District Engineering Office needed to address persistent road maintenance issues on the Maharlika Highway in Beguito Viejo, Libmanan, Philippines. The road frequently faced heavy traffic loads from trucks and buses, causing asphalt pavement deterioration exacerbated by recurring flooding. This project incorporated MIRAFI H2Rx for subgrade stabilization and moisture management over a 470 m road section to assess its effectiveness. 

Challenge

The installation process for this project began with the demolition of the old pavement structure. After clearing the area of debris, vegetation, and other obstructions, we prepared and compacted the subgrade layer. We then installed the mechanical stabilization and moisture management geotextile, MIRAFI H2Rx, over the prepared ground. We laid a subbase course layer according to the DPWH engineers' design and drawings, followed by the pouring of the new Portland Cement Concrete Pavement (PCCP).

One of the key challenges the project faced during the construction process was the limited space available, only one lane could be constructed at a time, while keeping the other lane open for motorists. Despite this constraint, the lightweight nature and straightforward installation method of MIRAFI H2Rx facilitated its efficient incorporation into the road section under construction. This ensured minimal disruption to traffic flow and enabled timely project completion. The ease of handling and versatility of MIRAFI H2Rx were crucial in overcoming spatial limitations and maintaining smooth operations during the construction phase.

This approach signified a shift towards more advanced solutions for subgrade stabilization and moisture management. By incorporating this geotextile material into the road reconstruction process, we aimed to explore new possibilities and enhance the overall effectiveness of maintenance efforts.

Solution

This project used 6,300 m²  of MIRAFI H2Rx. MIRAFI H2Rx effectively managed moisture, provided subgrade stabilization, enhanced longevity and durability, and offered environmental benefits. By acting as a barrier to control water infiltration, reinforcing the subgrade to distribute loads more evenly, and reducing the need for frequent maintenance interventions, MIRAFI H2Rx helped improve the overall performance and long-term health of the road infrastructure.

Alternative rehabilitation strategies were considered to address the issue of regular road maintenance. Previous methods had proven inadequate in addressing the existing road problems. To solve these issues, Solmax added a layer of MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile to the road section to control moisture and address pavement loading difficulties.

The use of MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile significantly improved the performance and longevity of our road reconstruction projects. Educating readers on the ways geotextile enhances the road's structural integrity and durability can help them understand its importance. Additionally, providing detailed information about proper installation techniques and best practices for incorporating MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile into road reconstruction projects can educate readers on the practical aspects of implementing this solution.  By using MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile, road users benefit from decreased maintenance requirements, fewer potholes, reduced surface deformation, and improved resistance to erosion. These benefits resulted in cost savings and less disruption to traffic.   MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile has the following benefits for road construction:  

1. Performance: MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile enhances road construction and reconstruction projects. It improves construction efficiency, enhances structural integrity, and increases durability which can lead to a smoother, longer-lasting road surface.

2. Cost savings: MIRAFI H2Rx can reduce costs over the long term by reducing maintenance needs and extending the lifespan of the road.

3. Enhanced structural integrity: MIRAFI H2Rx geotextile acts as a reinforcement layer, distributing loads more evenly, which enhances the structural integrity of the road.

This project not only addressed immediate maintenance issues but also set a precedent for future projects, highlighting the importance of advanced geotextile materials in modern road construction and maintenance.  As a follow-up to this success, the new MIRAFI H2Rxx product has been introduced, which offers superior performance for similar applications. MIRAFI H2Rxx enhances road pavements and railway structures with superior load distribution, reinforcement, and moisture-wicking technology. Made with high tenacity polypropylene yarns, it improves soil bonding and durability, addressing subgrade stabilization challenges while ensuring environmental sustainability and resilience in construction projects.