Análisis del desgaste de pavimentos flexibles en caliente, por envejecimiento: Propuesta de una metodología para una inspección visual

Abstract

The deterioration of flexible pavements is a multifactorial process, mainly influenced by the aging of the asphalt mixture and its prolonged exposure to adverse weather conditions such as daily temperature ranges of up to 20°C, solar radiation, heavy rainfall, etc. These variables accelerate the loss of the mechanical and rheological properties of the asphalt binder, which progressively compromises the structural and functional performance of the pavement throughout its service life.
The objective of this study is to develop a systematic qualitative visual inspection methodology for assessing the surface condition of flexible pavements, with a particular focus on the effects of aging of the material. This methodology seeks to establish a technical tool that facilitates the timely and accurate identification of surface pathologies, allowing their classification according to type and level of severity, and serving as input for decision-making in road maintenance programs.
It methodology is based on the direct visual inspection of pavement sections with different degrees of aging, documenting the types of observable deterioration—such as cracking, raveling, bleeding, plastic deformation, among others—and evaluating each manifestation according to its type (according to standards such as ASTM D6433 or the PCI - Pavement Condition Index) and its severity (low, medium, high).
The findings of this study suggest that visual inspection is an effective tool for the early detection of failures in flexible pavements. Its implementation allows for the optimization of resources allocated to road infrastructure maintenance, promoting more efficient and cost-effective intervention strategies.