Implementation and investigation of low noise and pollutant-reducing pavements

Abstract

This work is focused on the experimental investigation of an innovative low noise asphalt mixture designed within the NEMO (Noise and Emissions MOnitoring and radical mitigation) project, funded by the Horizon 2020 programme (Grant Agreement ID:860441). The main objectives of the project concern the improvement of air quality and the reduction of noise impact through the implementation of innovative solutions in different scenarios in Europe, such as the use of remote-sensing systems and of low noise and pollutant-reducing asphalt mixtures. In particular, this paper refers to the study of acoustic performance of an innovative low noise road pavement by means of the Close-ProXimity method (CPX, ISO 11819 2/3). The CPX method allows to evaluate the acoustic emission due to tyre/pavement interaction (rolling noise), that becomes the most important contribution of traffic noise in the mid-to-high speed range. The pavement investigated, laid in the city of Florence, is a Very Thin Asphalt Concrete (VTAC) surface with discontinuous particle size distribution. CPX measurements were carried out both on the existing old pavement and on the prototype pavement in order to assess the efficiency and the acoustic benefits related to new installation.