Short-Term Effect of Pavement Surface Aging on Tire–Pavement Noise Measured with Onboard Sound Intensity Methodology

Abstract

This paper compares the potential short-term noise reduction generated by the use of two quiet concrete technologies [Next Generation Concrete Surface (NGCS) and conventional diamond grind] and three quiet asphalt surfaces (porous friction course surfaces with and without rubber and different maximum-sized aggregates) with control pavement sections (conventional transverse-tined portland cement concrete pavement and stone matrix asphalt pavement surface). The potentially quiet pavement surfaces were placed along five demonstration projects in Virginia. This paper investigates the susceptibility of the proposed surfaces to external factors, such as aging (four seasons were involved) and air temperature differentials. The statistical analysis of the collected data showed that all proposed surfaces presented benefits in terms of noise reduction; the NGCS exhibited noise reduction potential as high as 5 dB(A) when compared with the control section. For the asphalt surfaces, the sections with higher amounts of voids showed the lowest noise levels. In addition, the rubber-modified mixes showed an improved noise reduction potential. Air temperature normalization was performed, and air temperature was found to have a significant influence on the noise measurements, especially during the first months of use.