Crack Resistance of Fiber-reinforced Cement-stabilized Crushed Stone Bases: A Multi-scale Review

Abstract

Cement-stabilized crushed stone base (CSGB), as an important component of semi-rigid pavement structure, its crack resistance performance directly affects the service life and service safety of the road. However, traditional CSGB is prone to cracking due to dry shrinkage, temperature shrinkage and load action, resulting in structural failure. Scholars at home and abroad have inhibited the development of cracks by adding fibers, and the fiber reinforcement technology can significantly improve its crack resistance through a multi-scale toughening mechanism. This paper systematically reviews the multi-scale action mechanisms and technological progress of the crack resistance performance of fiber-reinforced cement-stabilized crushed stone (CSGB) from 2019 to 2025. Research progress indicates that fibers suppress the initiation of microcracks through the bridging effect at the microscopic interface, construct a three-dimensional network at the mesoscopic scale to optimize the stress distribution, and ultimately achieve a breakthrough in macroscopic engineering performance - significantly reducing the crack density and deformation sensitivity of the base layer, and enhancing the ductility and durability of the material. Research progress on polyvinyl alcohol (PVA), polypropylene and modified natural fibers, etc., can specifically improve shrinkage deformation and fatigue response, providing key technical support for the design of high-crack-resistant base layers. This review provides a theoretical anchor point and technical path for breaking through the crack resistance bottleneck of traditional semi-rigid base layers, which has important engineering value for improving the service life of roads.