Evaluating the effect of different asphalt mixtures on hydroplaning using a new lab-scale apparatus

Skid resistance of asphalt pavements is one of the most important road criteria for users' safety. In a rainy condition the skid resistance is largely compromised and when the road surface is flooded, vehicles can experience hydroplaning at a certain critical speed. Tires under hydroplaning conditions become separated from the pavement surface and the ability of tires to increase braking force or cornering traction for stopping or controlling vehicle motion is almost entirely lost. In this study, a new lab-scale apparatus was designed and manufactured, which can stimulate hydroplaning and evaluate the impact of different asphalt mixtures on this phenomenon. To evaluate various mixes, three types of asphalt mixtures with different grading are made and mean texture depth and British pendulum number are measured by six repetitions. By using this apparatus in dry and wet conditions of pavement surface, five different frequencies are tested in terms of hydroplaning. The results show that there is 33% increase in hydroplaning occurrence speed by increasing mean texture depth by 0.5mm.