Geocell unpaved road calculator.
Giroud-Han 2004 aggregate-thickness method modified for geocell cellular confinement. Returns required aggregate thickness with and without StrataWeb HDPE geocell, plus the percentage saving from confinement. Use for haul roads, working platforms, weak-subgrade access roads.
Confinement factor by cell depth.
| Cell depth | Typical K-factor | Typical application |
|---|---|---|
| 75 mm | 1.5-2.0 | Light access roads, surface erosion control, light load support |
| 100 mm | 2.0-2.5 | Standard haul road, working platform light plant, slope facing |
| 150 mm | 2.5-3.0 | Heavy haul road (CBR 1-2), heavy plant working platform |
| 200 mm | 3.0-3.5 | Mining haul road, very weak subgrade, heavy gravity retaining |
K-factor depends on cell depth, fill type, and the subgrade CBR. Higher K is achievable with high-quality crushed-rock infill; lower K with sandy or marginal fill. Conservative starting K for tropical Malaysian conditions: 1.8 (75 mm), 2.2 (100 mm), 2.7 (150 mm), 3.0 (200 mm).
The economics break point.
Geocell almost always wins economically when subgrade CBR is below 3. In those conditions, aggregate thickness without geocell can be 0.5-1.2 m; with a 150 mm geocell, this drops to 0.3-0.6 m. Even with the cost of the geocell itself (RM 15-25/m² for 150 mm StrataWeb), the saving in aggregate volume, haulage, and time on the working platform usually returns 30-50% net cost reduction. For CBR 5 or higher, the unreinforced solution is competitive; geocell becomes a quality / speed choice rather than a cost choice.
Other tools.
Working platform on weak ground?
WhatsApp the CBR + plant schedule; we'll model the working platform with StrataWeb sizing.