Limited noise tests on poroelastic road surfaces (PERS), mainly in Sweden and Japan, have shown a high noise-reducing potential; 10 dB(A) and more compared to dense asphalt is feasible. This makes it a potential alternative to noise barriers; especially where such are impractical or not desirable. The specific feature of PERS is that it consists mainly of rubber granules from recycled tyres bound with a synthetic resin, such as polyurethane. However, in the present state of the art, its durability remains inadequate. Especially, problems with ravelling, debonding, skid resistance and drainage need to be solved. In September 2009, the large-scale EU-funded PERSUADE project was started. The goal of this project is the development of PERS into a usable product, and it will be carried out by a consortium of twelve partners from eight European countries. The project programme comprises an extensive investigation in the laboratory to develop a durable PERS mixture, the construction of seven test sections in five partner countries, a monitoring effort for the test sections (noise, rolling resistance, skid resistance, durability, winter behaviour, etc), and a study of all conceivable environmental and economic aspects. This contribution deals with the usefulness of a PERS wearing course, project goals, work plan and reports some of the work carried out so far.
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