Assessment of Geogrid Reinforcement on the Performance of Stabilized Subgrades Under Different Loading Conditions

Geogrid stabilization has gained significant attention in recent years as an effective method for enhancing the performance of subgrade soils. However, the reinforcement effect of the geogrids under different loading conditions has not been thoroughly investigated, which hinders a comprehensive understanding of subgrade stabilization. Therefore, this paper aims to investigate and compare the behavior of a stabilized subgrade with geogrids reinforcement under cyclic loading and monotonic loading conditions. The experiments were conducted within a steel model box measuring 1.0 m (length), 1.0 m (width), and 1.2 m (height). The subgrade layer was consistently maintained at a thickness of 500 mm and strength of 2.5% California Bearing Ratio (CBR). A granular layer of high-quality material with a thickness of 200 mm was applied on top of the weak subgrade and geogrid was placed at the interface between the granular layer and subgrade. The tests were conducted in a controlled laboratory setting, specifically measuring vertical displacement in response to monotonic and cyclic loading. The results were then analyzed to evaluate ultimate bearing capacity, stiffness and rutting thereby estimating the effect of geogrids on stabilization of weak subgrades. These findings are anticipated to contribute significantly to the development of design guidelines for stabilized subgrade with geogrids reinforcement. By incorporating these insights, the design, and optimization of geogrid reinforcement systems for subgrade stabilization can be enhanced, ultimately resulting in improved performance and increased longevity of transportation infrastructure.