Asphalt is an increasingly popular material for many applications, although it does present some durability challenges. Premature asphalt failure can result in significant costs, repairs, downtime, and safety hazards. Knowing how long asphalt lasts is essential for effective planning and operations.
The long-term lifespan of asphalt roads depends on several factors. To maintain a positive return on investment, it is essential to reinforce asphalt to extend its service life and reduce maintenance requirements. Understanding the factors that impact asphalt longevity and taking targeted action to mitigate them can have a significant impact on the performance and cost-savings associated with asphalt installation.
The definition of “life expectancy” in asphalt is variable. It’s not a fixed number but instead depends on several external factors, including maintenance, climate, construction quality, and temperature. In general, asphalt roads have a life expectancy of between 13-17 years before they require replacement or extensive rehabilitation. However, it can be extended or reduced. Some of the principal factors that affect asphalt life expectancy include:
Concrete has a longer lifespan than asphalt in many applications, particularly those involving high traffic volumes and heavy loads. However, the optimal choice of pavement material depends on a comprehensive evaluation that extends beyond longevity. Asphalt is more cost-effective to install and maintain. It’s a versatile and flexible medium. With reinforcement technologies and regular maintenance, you can increase its service life.
In contrast, concrete is durable and long-lasting, particularly in demanding environments. However, it’s significantly more expensive to install and repair. This enhanced durability comes at a premium, with significantly higher initial installation costs and more complex repair procedures. Both materials will deteriorate without effective preservation techniques to slow the degradation, and their service life can be extended with additional reinforcement from the design phase through to construction.
Asphalt failure is when the structure deteriorates to a point where it can no longer perform its intended function. Once asphalt reaches this point, it must be completely replaced. Asphalt failure can manifest in several ways, including:
Cracks can form in asphalt for several reasons. Repeated traffic loads can cause fatigue cracks, while temperature changes result in thermal cracking. Cracks in the underlying layers of the structure can propagate through the asphalt overlay to create reflective cracking. Water can penetrate the cracks, weakening the asphalt, which can lead to potholes and weaken structural integrity.
Asphalt is a flexible material, and over time, wheel path depressions form on the surface due to traffic loads. Over time, permanent deformation and consolidation accumulate in the pavement surface. Inadequate mix design, compaction, and reinforcement can accelerate the process.
Raveling occurs when the aggregate particles on the asphalt surface are dislodged. It reduces skid resistance, roughens the surface, and exposes the layers underneath to the elements, leading to further deterioration. It’s a natural part of asphalt aging, especially in high-traffic areas. Other causes include poor aggregate mix and inadequate compaction.
Despite the potential for failure, there is a way to make asphalt stronger. Fibers in asphalt play several important roles, including acting as a stabilizer to decrease the drain-down effect and as reinforcement to enhance the mixture’s mechanical properties. Fiber reinforcement increases the longevity and durability of asphalt, offering the following benefits:
Fibers are distributed evenly throughout the asphalt mix. They’re suitable for all working temperatures and ensure that the asphalt mix maintains its enhanced properties throughout the application process. These fibers have inherent physical properties that emerge as an innovative solution to asphalt degradation issues.
Longevity and return on investment are always primary concerns when investing in an asphalt road, pavement, or other structure. FORTA offers an alternative with fiber reinforcement that lasts. We have been at the forefront of innovation since 1978, serving the needs of the global construction industry with our cutting-edge solutions.
Our asphalt reinforcement solution, FORTA-FI®, offers three-dimensional reinforcement that extends the lifespan of your structure, even in challenging conditions. We understand that every project is different, and our experienced professionals will work with you to find the most suitable fiber for maximum longevity and performance. Reduce the costs associated with frequent repairs and replacements. Contact us to learn more today!
Linked Sources:
https://research.d.umn.edu/manik-barman-potholes-2023
https://fortacorp.com/resources/news/concrete-and-asphalt-pavement-perseveration-guide/
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0950061823014678
https://fortacorp.com/solutions/asphalt-solutions/products/forta-fi/
https://fortacorp.com/resources/news/paving-the-way-to-sustainable-infrastructure/
https://fortacorp.com/solutions/asphalt-solutions/products/forta-fi/
https://fortacorp.com/markets/
https://fortacorp.com/solutions/asphalt-solutions/products/forta-fi/
