Evaluation of Flexible Pavement Failures-A Case Study on Izki Road

Pavement is a multi-layer system that distributes the vehicular loads over a larger area. It helps to make them durable and able to withstand traffic and the environment. Pavement consists of three basic layers the first layer is Sub grade (Gravel) which is the foundation layer, the second layer is sub base (layer Assistant foundation) and the top layer is base (a layer of pavement) which consists of Bituminous Carpet + Bituminous Macadam. Cracking of pavement is a defect that appears in the top layer of the road. Pavement can be under compression and tension at the same time, but in different directions. While a tire compresses a pavement downward, it forms a deflection basin which causes the pavement to go into tension in both horizontal directions. If the pavement is not strong enough, the asphalt is stretched too far, which separates and a crack forms in the wheel track. A crack may also form between the wheel tracks. The maintenance of roads means protecting, restoration and strengthening of all elements of the road to maintain sustainability of the road. Road maintenance also includes additional work that is necessary in order to raise the level of performance and reach the best level of safety and comfort for the road users. Roads are high-cost investments and need constant maintenance so that these investments continue to perform as required. Therefore, care must be taken to maintain the roads in optimum maintenance and in a scientific manner. The aim of this Study is to identify the most common types of cracks and defects which occur in Izki road and suggest suitable option for maintenance. The objectives are to identify different types of cracks & defects, to find out the different reasons that cause defects and cracks in Izki road and to suggest suitable maintenance methods. A 2km length of the road was selected for the study. Survey was carried out and the reasons for cracking and other failures in pavement were studied. Finally, the required maintenance solution for each type of failures was identified and the best maintenance option was selected.