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Research Report 064 Stabilisation for New Zealand roads: a review

Published: | Category: Activity management , Research programme , Research & reports | Audience: General

A review has been made of the international literature that was available up to 1996 and of New Zealand experience and practices for the stabilisation of materials for use in road pavements. The review indicates that stabilisation has provided economic and durable road pavements, and highlights the New Zealand approach of using relatively low levels of additives to provide flexible stabilised pavements.

The main additives currently used for stabilisation of New Zealand roads are lime or cement. The review concentrates on these and includes coverage of the reaction mechanisms, changes in properties caused by stabilisation, and suitable soils and testing. Construction is covered in some detail.

The use of lime or cement for pavement repairs, and in unsealed roads, is covered. These applications of stabilisation have potential for much wider use. Bitumen-stabilisation is also covered in broad terms, and again its potential for greater use is recognised. Comment is included on other additives for stabilisation, including the use of proprietary products. Aspects of safety and quality control are given.

Keywords: Bitumen, cement, lime, New Zealand, pavements, roads, stabilisation

Publication details

  • Author:
  • Published: 1996
  • Reference: 64