Government allocations for road maintenance in the Nordic countries are insufficient, at the same time as demands on roads are growing steadily. Traffic has increased heavily in recent years. Adaptation to the European Community's weight regulations at the beginning of the 90s will further increase wear and tear on roads. Increased loads and an ageing road system, together with inadequate funds for road maintenance, impose far-reaching demands on research. More durable pavements need to be developed. Methods must be found for correct dimensioning of strengthening and overlays. Determined efforts are also required in building up know-how of the degradation of roads. A great deal of research is needed regarding the qualities of roadbuilding materials, both old and new. The effects of frost on roads and maintenance requirements is a further topic requiring study. In general, major research efforts are needed before we achieve economically optimal road maintenance in the Nordic countries.
Abstract