The Use of Fabric Reinforced Overlays to Control Reflection Cracking of Composite Pavements

Report No: 72-R27

Published in 1973

About the report:

Fabric reinforcement was used in an attempt to prevent reflection cracking of two bituminous concrete layers overlying an 8-inch plain (unreinforced, unjointed) concrete base that was underlain by a portland cement stabilized subbase material. On these pavements it was expected that the extremely rigid base and subbase layers would reduce vertical motion to a minimum. Similar pavements constructed with no overlay reinforcement readily showed reflection cracking in the bituminous layers, presumably because of horizontal, thermally induced movements of shrinkage cracks in the concrete base.

Disclaimer Statement:The contents of this report reflect the views of the author(s), who is responsible for the facts and the accuracy of the data presented herein. The contents do not necessarily reflect the official views or policies of the Virginia Department of Transportation, the Commonwealth Transportation Board, or the Federal Highway Administration. This report does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation. Any inclusion of manufacturer names, trade names, or trademarks is for identification purposes only and is not to be considered an endorsement.

Authors

  • Kenneth H. McGhee, Charles S. Hughes, P.E.

Last updated: February 8, 2024

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