In the quest to improve road construction and repair in Ukraine, a promising study led by Dmytro Kostin from the Kharkiv National Automobile and Highway University (KNAHU) is making waves. Published in the journal *Дороги і мости* (translated as “Roads and Bridges”), Kostin’s research delves into the use of coarse-graded crushed stone and sand mixtures reinforced with cement and polypropylene fibers, offering a potential game-changer for the industry.
The study addresses a critical issue in road construction: the balance between strength and frost resistance. Traditional mixtures often rely on low-strength mineral binders, which, while cost-effective, can lead to problems like low frost resistance and temperature cracks. “The easiest way to increase frost resistance is to boost the binder content, but this can negatively impact the crack resistance of the base layer,” explains Kostin. This dilemma has prompted researchers to explore alternative solutions.
Kostin’s research focuses on the reinforcement of crushed stone-sand mixtures with polypropylene fibers. The study involved producing a reinforced mixture using crushed stone-sand blend C7 from granite raw materials, supplied by LLC «Kryvbas-shchebin». The binder used was slag Portland cement PC II/B-Sh 400, produced by LLC «Mineral powders and mixtures», constituting 3.5% of the mixture’s mass. To ensure optimal compaction, the mixture’s moisture content was maintained at 8.0% by weight of the stone material. Polypropylene reinforcing fibers, 18 mm in length, were introduced for micro-reinforcement.
The commercial implications of this research are significant. Enhanced frost resistance and crack resistance can lead to longer-lasting road surfaces, reducing maintenance costs and downtime. For the energy sector, which relies heavily on efficient transportation networks, this could mean more reliable and cost-effective logistics. “This technology could revolutionize how we approach road construction, particularly in regions with harsh climates,” Kostin suggests.
The study’s findings could pave the way for future developments in road construction materials. By optimizing the use of fibers and binders, engineers may be able to create more durable and resilient road surfaces, ultimately benefiting both the construction industry and the broader economy. As Kostin’s research continues to gain traction, it’s clear that the future of road construction is evolving, one fiber-reinforced mixture at a time.