Use of discrete event simulation to design geocomposite membrane installations

Geosynthetics are incorporated into flexible pavement systems to improve their performance. However, geosynthetics must be installed properly to produce good results. The application of discrete-event simulation to design and analyze the installation of geocomposite membranes in flexible pavements is discussed. Data collected from two test sections at the Smart Road project in Blacksburg, Virginia, were used for modeling and analysis. Stroboscope was used as the simulation engine. The process used in the development of simulation models is discussed. A number of installation alternatives were studied and simulated to examine their practicality and to investigate their productivity, resource utilization, and unit cost.