EFFECTIVE CLEANING OF LOW-NOISE PAVEMENTS

摘要

Several noise abatement measures have been developed during the past decades through the use of low-noise pavements. For optimal conditions initial noise reductions up to 10 dB(A) have been obtained compared to a normal dense asphalt concrete. However, while some countries have reported encouraging acoustic longevity, many others have experienced meagre technical- and acoustical performances due to material deterioration and clogging of the pores by detritus and other clogging agents. This has to some extent hampered a wider application of low-noise pavements. To investigate the feasibility of low-noise pavements in Sweden a few test sections were laid and evaluated within the SILVIA and SILENCE projects as well as in a national project conducted in partnership between industry and government. Due to frequent use of studded tires during the winter period, severe clogging was recognized to be one of the most critical factors with respect to acoustic performance. This paper presents the experiences and effect of different high-pressure washing equipments with respect to acoustic longevity. The effects were evaluated by CPX- and Becker-tube measurements as well as CT-scanning of asphalt cores. The results reveal that a significant retention of the acoustic performance can be achieved by effective cleaning of low-noise pavements.