This paper deals with the application of, and the experience gained with, porous asphalt (PA) in The Netherlands. Porous asphalt is a material that was introduced in The Netherlands some twenty years ago. The decisive reasons for the large scale application of porous asphalt in The Netherlands were both its noise reducing quality and its positive effects in respect of traffic safety. At the end of 1992 some 18% (or approx. 12 square km) of our motorways had porous asphalt as a wearing course. At present some 2.5 square km of porous asphalt are laid every year. The most important experiences gained with porous asphalt are discussed. Not only the aspects relating to traffic safety, but also the noise reduction, pollution of the pores, (winter) maintenance and costs are mentioned. Attention is also given to mix design, construction methods and the life span of porous asphalt. The results of our research are then discussed in greater detail. This research on porous asphalt is focussed on lengthening the life span, recycling porous asphalt and improving the initial skid resistance. (A) The German title of this article is: Porös Asphalt und Strassenvekehrssicherheit.
Abstract