Innovative design of self-adhesive basalt fiber mesh geotextiles for enhanced pavement crack resistance

Abstract

This study introduces a novel design of self-adhesive basalt fiber mesh geotextile, aiming to significantly enhance the crack resistance of asphalt pavements. Reflective cracks from environmental and traffic stresses in traditional semi-rigid asphalt pavements, compounded by current geotextiles' mechanical and adhesion limitations, reduce service life. This study explores the mechanical properties, adhesion to asphalt, and resistance to simulated cracking of self-adhesive basalt fiber mesh geotextiles within pavement structures. This is accomplished through a series of mechanical tests, interfacial adhesion tests, and advanced characterization using Digital Image Correlation. The results indicate that the distinctive pore structure of basalt fiber mesh geotextiles introduces an embedded interlocking reinforcement effect, which significantly enhances the strength of the composite geotextile. The SAM-160M specimen demonstrates a maximum tensile strength of 3.599 kN, surpassing that of the plain fabric specimen by over 34%. The twisted weaving process of the mesh fabric improves adhesion to asphalt by 14.54% compared to plain fabric, thereby enhancing the performance of the pavement structure's interlayer and its resistance to cracking. The mesh fabric excels at dispersing concentrated stresses, enhancing weak interface zones, and increasing the structural capacity and longevity of pavements. These improvements support sustainable road construction with broad engineering applications.