Simultaneous effects of salted water and water flow on asphalt concrete pavement deterioration under freeze–thaw cycles

Abstract

The presence of water flow on road surfaces may lead to early deterioration of bituminous pavements. The adverse impacts of various anti-freezing materials on road surface performance have drawn the attention of many researchers. However, the simultaneous effects of salted water and water flow on the deterioration of road surfaces, particularly under freeze–thaw conditions, have not been adequately addressed. This research aims to study the combined effects of water flow and anti-freezing materials, which are usually present in the vicinity of asphaltic pavements during freeze–thaw cycles, on asphalt concrete deterioration. Two sets of asphalt concrete samples were prepared and subjected to six exposure states. The samples were also tested in an abrasion test apparatus and subjected to normal and frictional forces. Marshall strength loss and weight loss of the samples were measured and the results were analysed. The results indicated that the combined effects of water flow and de-icers under freeze–thaw conditions intensified the deterioration of asphalt concrete.