Performance of Prefabricated Geocomposite Subdrainage System in an Airport Runway

A Prefabricated Geocomposite Subdrainage PGS system installed in Runway 09-27 at Kewanee Municipal Airport in 1985 was evaluated. The study demonstrated that a PGS system could be installed within the active runway area at a distance of 12.5 ft on either side of the centerline. There were no problems with settlement or distresses along the installation location. Subdrainage outflow measurements indicated that 25 to 45 of the rainfall water infiltrated the pavement and passed through the PGS system. Subdrainage outflows varied but a maximum outflow of over 1700 galhr was measured during the study. It was observed that water flow from the pavement joints and cracks ceased once the PGS system was installed. The FWD data indicated that the subgrade soil beneath Runway 09-27 ranged from less than 1 ksi to generally 3 ksi. Although there was some improvement in subgrade strength during the study period it was not possible to conclude that subdrainage was totally responsible for this improvement. There was an indication from the data analysis that there could be some raveling in the lower half of the full-depth asphalt concrete layer. The PCI study conducted on Runway 09-27 provided results from 1981 to 1990. The PCI ratings obtained after installation of the PGS system in 1985 indicated the possibility of some overall improvement in pavement performance. Airport pavements, Drainage, Subdrainage, Prefabricated geocomposite subdrainage, Systems.