In the scorching heat of southeastern Turkey, where temperatures can soar to 50°C, the Cizre-Silopi highway has been a battleground for pavement durability. The region’s extreme climate and heavy truck traffic have taken a toll on the highway’s bituminous hot mix asphalt (HMA) pavement, leading to rapid deterioration and significant rutting issues. This has not only posed safety risks but also disrupted the smooth flow of goods, including energy sector supplies, along this crucial route.
Sedat Özcanana, the lead author of a study published in ‘Građevinar’, which translates to ‘The Civil Engineer’, has been investigating these challenges. His findings, published in the journal, reveal that the HMA pavement loses approximately 52% of its stability and flow resistance as temperatures rise from 20°C to 50°C. This dramatic loss of integrity has led to extensive rutting, even in the initial summer post-construction. “The rapid deterioration of the HMA pavement under high temperatures and heavy traffic is alarming,” Özcanana states. “It underscores the need for more resilient materials in road construction under such climatic conditions.”
The study compares HMA with concrete (C25) and roller-compacted concrete (RCC) pavements, which showed minimal strength reductions under the same temperature conditions. This suggests that concrete or RCC could be a game-changer for highway pavements in hot regions. “Concrete and RCC pavements exhibited remarkable resistance to temperature-induced damage and rutting,” Özcanana explains. “This makes them a more suitable choice for regions with high temperatures and heavy axle loads.”
The implications of this research are vast, particularly for the energy sector, which relies heavily on efficient transportation networks. The use of more durable materials like concrete or RCC could lead to longer-lasting roads, reduced maintenance costs, and minimized disruptions in the supply chain. This could be a boon for energy companies operating in hot regions, ensuring that their supplies reach destinations smoothly and safely.
The findings also highlight the need for a shift in construction practices. As Özcanana’s research shows, the choice of materials can significantly impact the longevity and performance of road infrastructure. This could influence future developments in the field, encouraging engineers and contractors to consider more temperature-resistant materials for road construction in hot regions.
The study, published in ‘Građevinar’, serves as a wake-up call for the construction industry. It challenges conventional practices and advocates for a more resilient approach to road construction. As the demand for energy and goods continues to grow, so does the need for durable and reliable infrastructure. Özcanana’s research provides a compelling case for concrete and RCC, offering a potential solution to the challenges posed by extreme temperatures and heavy traffic.
