Experimental investigation on tire-pavement noise and wearing course surface characteristics

Abstract

Tire-pavement noise has become an increasingly important consideration for highway agencies and seeks development of efficient strategies for noise mitigation. Noise generation mechanisms at the tire-pavement interface are mainly associated with (a) contact and vibration, in which the noise is created due to the adhesion and impact of the tire against the pavement surface and (b) aerodynamics. While the composition and structure of the tires increase the complexity of the phenomenon and are beyond the control of pavement engineers, many properties of the pavement surface can be controlled to help to mitigate tire-pavement noise. Advances in quiet pavement technology have shown the potential for using porous, sound-absorbing pavements as an abatement technology. This study aims to further contribute covering the evaluation of acoustic performance of wearing course mixes included in pavement systems across Europe. For this purpose, field measurement campaigns were carried out at several test sections within the framework of the European project SKIDSAFE. The experimental results are presented and critically discussed.