Includes bibliographical references and index.

1. Introduction -- 2. Track structure and rail load -- 3. Factors governing ballast behaviour -- 4. State-of-the-art laboratory testing and degradation assessment of ballast -- 5. Behaviour of ballast with and without geosynthetics and energy absorbing mats -- 6. Existing track deformation models -- 7. A constitutive model for ballast -- 8. Track drainage and use of geotextiles -- 9. Role of subballast, its drainage and filtration characteristics -- 10. Field instrumentation for track performance verification -- 11. DEM modelling of ballast densification and breakage -- 12. FEM modelling of tracks and applications to case studies -- 13. Non-destructive testing and track condition assessment -- 14. Track maintenance -- 15. Recommended ballast gradations -- 16. Bio-engineering for track stabilisation --Appendices.

"In this book, the authors present the detailed information on the strength, deformation and degradation aspects of fresh and recycled ballast under monotonic, cyclic, and impact loading using innovative geotechnical testing devices" -- Back cover.