Experimental-based model for predicting the skid resistance of asphalt pavements

Abstract

The skid resistance of asphalt pavement is a major characteristic of road safety. This study aimed at the development of a model that expresses skid resistance as a function of mixture gradation, aggregate texture and traffic level. The model was developed based on comprehensive measurements and analysis of asphalt mixture surface characteristics (friction, texture and skid resistance) in the laboratory and the field. In addition, aggregates were characterised using the aggregate imaging system after different polishing intervals in the Micro-Deval. The aggregate gradation was described using the two-parameter cumulative Weibull distribution function. The developed model provides an estimate of the skid number in the field. Consequently, this model can be used by engineers to select different combinations of aggregate types and mixture designs such that the desired level of skid resistance at a given traffic level is achieved.

Keywords:

• asphalt mixture
• skid resistance prediction model
• aggregate characteristics
• texture
• gradation

Acknowledgements

The authors hereby acknowledge the assistance of Mr Arif Chowdhury in carrying out the field measurements. This study was conducted as part of Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Research Project 0-5627 entitled ‘Aggregate Resistance to Polishing and Its Relationship to Skid Resistance’. Authors thank TxDOT and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) for their support in funding this research study.