Study on pervious concrete pavement mix designs

Abstract

Increased precipitation in recent years due to the effect of climate change is leading to increased surface runoff and water logging in urban areas while impervious concrete or asphalt covering of urban lands hinders groundwater recharge. However, Pervious Concrete Pavements have the capacity of functioning as a Sustainable Urban Drainage System (SUDS) by allowing surface water to infiltrate downwards through the porous structure of the pavements, thereby minimizing flooding risks, recharging ground water, reducing run off and peak flows, alleviating the precipitation load on overstressed drainage systems, and improving water quality by capturing pollutants. This research provides an overview on pervious concrete mix designs and their effect on strength and permeability. Materials of pervious concrete include those used in conventional concrete, however eliminating the fine aggregate content. Different mix designs have been prepared and tested to understand the behavior of Pervious Concrete and recommend an ideal mix. The findings from the Compressive Strength Test and Standard Test Method for Infiltration Rate of in place Pervious Concrete, investigate the gradually varying properties of pervious concrete with changes in the mix which are reported and discussed. Results indicate that a fine balance between compressive strength and permeability is not possible however pervious concrete pavements can be an acceptable alternative when used in low volume and low impact areas.