Stabilizing Sand Roads with Wood Products and Byproducts

Abstract

Significant regions of the United States are covered with unstable sands that present traction and maintenance problems on unsurfaced, low-volume roads. Gravel for road surfacing is often unavailable or expensive because of the lack of local gravel deposits. The majority of these sandy areas occur in forested lands with thriving timber and paper industries. The objectives of this study were to review the various wood products and byproducts that are available and carry out a qualitative evaluation of their potential for stabilizing low-volume roads in unstable sands. Wood-related materials may provide cost-effective and environmentally beneficial alternatives for road stabilization materials in areas where gravel is not available or economical for use. The results of a literature search and market survey of wood products, byproducts, and paper mill byproducts are presented along with grain-size distribution test results for unstable sands and some materials. The performance of U.S. Forest Service roads previously stabilized with wood chips, chunkwood, and paper mill sludge was evaluated by site observation. Most of the materials were found to be at least marginally effective in some environments. Paper mill boiler ash shows particular promise as a recycled material for road stabilization and is recommended for further study.