PREDICTING SURFACE FRICTION - WHAT DO WE WANT AND WHAT DO WE KNOW?

摘要

A great deal of confusion exists in the test procedures and aggregate properties that have been used to predict pavement skid performance. With the national trend in states moving toward performance-based and warranty specifications, the effective measurements and roles of macrotexture and microtexture in a skid performance equation must be clearly understood. Polish value and acid insoluble residue tests are currently favoured by several states. Surface texture measurement using laser technique is also being considered as a tool for surface friction prediction. In order for the contractors and aggregate suppliers to deliver performance or provide warranty in surface friction, the state highway agencies as well as the construction industry must clearly understand what exactly the test(s) measures and how does the test result relate to friction performance. The "one-size-fits-all" method specifications employed by most state highway agencies do not address the balance between the engineering and economic considerations. To provide safe and effective pavement surfacing as a performance or warranty product, a candid review of the current test procedures and specifications is needed.