Measuring Infiltration Rates in Permeable Asphalt Pavement in Urban Landscapes

Efficient water management of roads has become increasingly important due to the escalating challenges posed by climate change. The existing body of research focusing on permeable pavements with surface layers of asphalts, concrete, and interlocking pavers, is limited, especially with respect to the use of porous asphalt as a surface layer is. Addressing the challenges and opportunities associated with permeable asphalt pavements, such as cleaning practices and maintaining infiltration efficiency is, nonetheless, essential to improve and advance urban engineering practices. This research, therefore, explores the intricate relationship between porous asphalt pavements and the dynamic behavior of infiltration rates over time.

Utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data, the study revealed a variability in infiltration rates along the tested roads, affected by variables such as, pavement porosity and surface condition resulting from variation in the pavement construction process and practice. The study, additionally, show that continuous cleaning and maintenance have a positive effect on the infiltration capability of permeable asphalt pavements, rendering surface cleaning essential, to maintain a high infiltration performance of permeable asphalt pavements.