Improved approach for evaluating saturated surface infiltration capacity of interlocking-block permeable pavements

Area of Science:

• Civil Engineering
• Environmental Engineering
• Hydrology

Background:

• Permeable pavement infiltration tests yield inconsistent results, hindering performance comparisons.
• Interlocking-block permeable pavements (IBPPs) present unique challenges due to joint variations and block configurations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel approach for evaluating IBPP infiltration capacity using a simulation model.
• To establish a standardized method for comparing infiltration performance across different permeable pavement types.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a finite-volume computational fluid dynamic (CFD) method to create an infiltration test simulation model.
• Calibrated the model with hydraulic parameters specific to the tested IBPP.

Main Results:

• The calibrated model accurately calculates saturated infiltration capacity under rainfall conditions.
• The approach allows for the computation of conventional metrics (e.g., mm/h infiltration rate) and fundamental hydraulic parameters.
• Provides a unified basis for comparing infiltration capacities of IBPPs, porous asphalt, and pervious concrete.

Conclusions:

• The proposed CFD simulation model offers a reliable and standardized method for assessing permeable pavement infiltration.
• Enables meaningful comparisons of infiltration performance, facilitating knowledge sharing and improved pavement design.