This paper describes a methodology for assessing the asset condition of pavement foundations by principally non-intrusive methods. The methodology has been developed through a research programme undertaken in the UK.The methodology brings together various existing data sets: pavement performance data (in the form of TRACS data), and existing earthworks asset information data sources; which is then coupled with non-destructive scanning undertaken by high speed ground penetrating radar. Combining these data sets enables an assessment to be made of likely sub-grade conditions, the route is then subdivided into a series of performance categories, and potential geotechnical problems can be identified. Bringing data sets together in this way by a standard methodology enables pavement foundation or subgrade performance issues to be understood and allowed for within pavement condition assessments. This will assist with the planning of intrusive ground investigation, and selection of appropriate maintenance works. This method offers potential benefits to the asset management of roads by reductions in engineering works, cost, safety and traffic disruption. For the covering abstract see ITRD E139491.
Abstract