Tyre-road noise reduction through optimization of wearing asphalt layer structure

Abstract

Article analyses main influencing factors of road transport noise, vehicle noise generation mechanisms and negative impacts for the society. Noise management and abatement is one of the main environmental challenges that National Road Administrations has to tackle to keep their road networks sustainable. Traditional noise reduction solutions for are not always cost-effective in terms of implementation and maintenance, however the alternative solutions like low noise pavements, has to be adapted for specific traffic and climate conditions that vary in different countries. Effective noise reduction concepts were used when optimizing surface structure of low noise asphalt pavements. Laboratory testing was performed to harmonize both noise reduction and structural strength properties of conceptual low noise asphalt mixtures developed for Lithuanian climate conditions. Paper describes the laboratory testing procedure and concludes with the results and outcomes of the research as well as the recommendations for further development of low noise asphalt pavements in Lithuania.