Multi-axial integral geogrid and methods of making and using same

Abstract

A method of making a multi-axial integral geogrid suitable for stabilizing aggregate includes providing a polymer sheet, providing a patterned plurality of holes or depressions in the polymer sheet, and biaxially orienting the polymer sheet having the patterned plurality of holes or depressions therein to provide a plurality of interconnected oriented strands and partially oriented junctions forming a repeating pattern of outer hexagons having an array of openings. Oriented ribs extending inwardly from each of the outer hexagons support and surround a smaller inner hexagon having oriented strands, thus forming a plurality of trapezoidal openings and a single hexagonal opening. The oriented strands and partially oriented junctions of the outer hexagons form a plurality of linear strong axis strands extending continuously throughout the geogrid and forming triangular openings. The method provides a geogrid having a geometry configured to engage with, confine, and stabilize a large variety and quality of aggregates.