Determination of Optimal Pretreatment Method for Existing Pavement Surface in High-Friction Surface Treatment Construction

Abstract

This paper presents the research approach and the test data, analysis results, and findings from a study that comprehensively investigated the possible effects of existing pavement, especially chip seal and its surface preparation, on the durability of high-friction surface treatment (HFST). The finite-element method (FEM) was employed to model the surface texture profiles of existing pavement and examine the stress distribution at the interface between the HFST and underlying pavement. Laboratory tests were carried out to determine the bonding strengths of HFST–pavement interfaces with different pretreatments under cyclic loading. Field assessment was conducted at selected real-life HFST sites to further determine the effects of the pretreatment in terms of HFST distress and pull-off tensile strength. It was concluded that vacuum sweeping is the optimal method for preparing existing pavements, including chip seals, to meet the needs of HFST durability. Chip seals in good condition are structurally capable of providing a sound base for HFST.