Full-scale evaluation of mat surfacings for roads over sand subgrades

Nine commercial mat systems were evaluated for use as expedient road surfacings over sand subgrades for beach crossing scenarios. Four were rolled mats and five were panel-type systems. A full-scale test section of each mat system was installed over a sand subgrade and trafficked with a fully loaded military truck. Mat deformation and damage were systematically surveyed at a series of traffic level intervals up to 2000 truck passes. The performance data were analyzed and presented graphically, and the mats were compared according to their abilities to sustain the traffic. The mat systems were further evaluated on the bases of rate of deployment, logistical footprint (unit weight and volume), and cost.