Approximately 62,000 miles of Minnesota’s roads are bituminous, or asphalt, surfaces. Bituminous roads are cost-effective and offer improved ride quality and safety.
Asphalt’s flexibility allows it to deflect traffic loadings, making it less prone to damage. But this attribute can lead to surface loss over time from heavy traffic loading, snowplows and weather conditions. Rumble strips and recessed pavement markings are particularly susceptible to pavement surface degradation.
Observing and quantifying road surface loss over two winter seasons will assist in understanding the impacts of different stressors on bituminous pavement. Results will provide insight into the effective installation of road safety features and support MnDOT’s asset management by informing maintenance and rehabilitation plans.
“The research is highly needed to better predict the life cycle of our pavements for planning purposes,” said Ethan Peterson, pavement marking and crashworthy engineer, MnDOT Office of Traffic Engineering. “Results will also help us extend the longevity of rumble strips and pavement marking recesses to maximize safety for the traveling public.”
Objectives
In a new project, researchers will analyze the effects of different stressors on bituminous pavement surface degradation, focusing on rumble strips and recessed pavement markings, to assist MnDOT in efficiently managing roads for safety and longevity.
The objectives are:
- Understand current knowledge and practices regarding pavement surface loss by reviewing literature and surveying other state departments of transportation and local transportation agencies
- Assess pavement condition and surface loss on various roads over two winter seasons
- Analyze field data to isolate and quantify surface degradation from weather, snowplows and traffic levels
- Identify best practices for optimal reduction of bituminous pavement surface loss
Project Details
- Estimated Start Date: 07/01/2024
- Estimated Completion Date: 09/30/2026
- Funding: MnDOT
- Principal Investigator: Ramez Hajj
- Technical Liaison: Ethan Peterson
Details of the research study work plan and timeline are subject to change.
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Crossroads 