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We’re revisiting a 1997 project, when Erfurt Airport undertook a significant renovation, reinforcing 110,000 m² of its runway pavement. Mesh Track® was selected as the pavement reinforcement solution, ensuring the runway’s durability under heavy traffic loading. 20 years later, the runway remains crack-free, showcasing the long-term effectiveness of this solution.
“Runways are subject to heavy loading and dragging, which can quickly degrade the concrete surface,” explained Dr. Ing. Bernd Grätz of Institut Dr. Ing. Gauer. “We needed a solution that would be fast to apply yet meet the high standards for load-bearing and surface friction.”
“Mesh Track® was the best option for extending pavement life,” Dr. Grätz noted. “Its ability to bear heavy loads and prevent cracks from propagating was unmatched.”
The use of Mesh Track® also significantly reduced construction time, cutting the schedule by 40% compared to a complete breakout. The contractor was able to install up to 17,500 m² of asphalt pavement each weekend, completing the project in just six weekends.
The implementation of Mesh Track® at Erfurt Airport has delivered impressive long-term results. The reinforced asphalt layers have maintained their integrity under heavy traffic loading, with no cracks propagating through the surface course. This has significantly extended the pavement’s service life, reducing the need for frequent maintenance and lowering overall lifecycle costs.
The Mesh Track® system’s ability to act as a moisture barrier also contributed to the durability of the asphalt pavement. By preventing moisture ingress, the system further protected the asphalt concrete from degradation, ensuring the runway remains in top condition.
The Erfurt Airport renovation stands as a testament to the effectiveness of Mesh Track® in pavement reinforcement. By choosing Mesh Track®, Erfurt Airport ensured a runway that remains resilient, reliable, and ready to meet future challenges.
