Study of Pavement Micro- and Macro-Texture Evolution Due to Traffic Polishing Using 3D Areal Parameters

Area of Science:

• Civil Engineering
• Materials Science
• Transportation Engineering

Background:

• Pavement texture, encompassing micro- and macro-texture, is crucial for roadway friction and driving safety.
• Previous studies on traffic polishing effects primarily relied on laboratory simulations.
• Understanding real-world texture evolution under traffic is essential for road maintenance and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conduct a field evaluation of pavement micro- and macro-texture changes due to actual traffic polishing.
• To utilize three-dimensional (3D) areal parameters for a comprehensive characterization of pavement texture evolution.
• To assess the effectiveness of 3D areal parameters in analyzing texture changes under real traffic conditions.

Main Methods:

• A portable, high-resolution 3D laser scanner was employed to capture pavement texture data over three consecutive years (2018-2020).
• Pavement texture data was decomposed into micro- and macro-texture components using Fourier transform and Butterworth filter techniques.
• Twenty distinct 3D areal parameters spanning height, spatial, hybrid, functional, and feature categories were calculated.

Main Results:

• The study successfully characterized the evolution of pavement micro- and macro-texture under real traffic polishing conditions.
• Analysis using 3D areal parameters provided a multi-faceted understanding of texture changes.
• The results confirmed the significant impact of traffic polish on pavement surface characteristics.

Conclusions:

• Three-dimensional areal parameters offer a robust and comprehensive method for evaluating pavement texture evolution in field conditions.
• This approach provides valuable data for understanding the long-term effects of traffic on road surfaces.
• The findings support the use of 3D texture analysis for improving pavement management and ensuring road safety.