Performance Evaluation of Geocell Reinforced Granular Sub-Base Layers—A Numerical Study

Abstract

In this study, finite element analyses are carried out using PLAXIS 3D software for realistic prediction of stress and deformation in granular sub-base layer of an unreinforced section as well as section reinforced with Geocell. The behavior of sub-base and subgrade soil has been simulated using linear elastic model and Mohr–Coulomb yield criterion, respectively. Geocell has been simulated as plate material and tyre pressure has been simulated using loading on circular plate. Slow cyclic testing in various stages has been performed with varying loads to study the resilient behavior of reinforced and unreinforced granular layers and the Modulus Improvement Factor (MIF) is determined due to the Geocell inclusion. The finite element model has been validated with the field test results of load and deformation conducted on trial sections built near Dandeli Reserve forest in Karnataka state highway No. 6 (Saride et al. 2016). This model has also been used to study the effect of Geocell reinforcement in the pavement sections given by IRC 37-2018 in their design catalogue. It has been observed that the MIF values obtained by introducing the Geocell as a reinforcement in the base layer comes down when compared with various field studies and laboratory studies due to the restriction of minimum thickness of base layer to be maintained as per IRC guidelines.