Evaluation of Lightweight Airfield Matting for the AMX Program

Airfield matting systems are used for the expedient construction of temporary airfields and the expansion of existing airfields to provide temporary airfield operating surfaces for military aircraft. The primary airfield matting system used by the U.S. Military is the AM2 airfield matting system. Although the AM2 matting system has proved to be successful for supporting modern aircraft, it is difficult to transport by air because of its size and weight. The AMX program was initiated by the U.S. Air Force to identify and evaluate new, lightweight airfield mat designs optimized for C-17 transport. Three commercially available matting systems of varying materials and designs were evaluated through the construction of a full-scale test section to determine their effectiveness at sustaining modern fighter aircraft loads and at reducing the accumulation of subgrade deformation. The matting systems were tested on a subgrade with a California bearing ratio (CBR) of 6 and subjected to simulated F-15E aircraft traffic while monitoring mat breakage and deformation. The systems were compared against baseline requirements established for the AMX program, which were established to match the performance of AM2 while providing a reduced logistical footprint. The systems tested in the experiments described in this report are not suitable alternatives, but improvements to mat component designs were recommended that could increase performance. DISCLAIMER: The contents of this report are not to be used for advertising, publication, or promotional purposes. Citation of trade names does not constitute an official endorsement or approval of the use of such commercial products. All product names and trademarks cited are the property of their respective owners. The findings of this report are not to be construed as an official Department of the Army position unless so designated by other authorized documents. DESTROY THIS REPORT WHEN NO LONGER NEEDED. DO NOT RETURN IT TO THE ORIGINATOR. ERDC/GSL TR-18-13 iii