Success factors & limitations
The use of low-noise semi-dense asphalt (SDA) leads to a significant reduction in road noise emissions. As practice shows, accompanying elements become more noticeable as a result.
For example, when rolling over transitions in pavement type, markings, manhole covers, excavations, or patches, distinctly audible noises can occur, which may be disturbing for residents – especially when the surrounding road surface is very quiet.
Therefore, the following pages will highlight the central success factors and typical limitations in the realization of low-noise road surfaces. The aim is to show which points need to be considered in planning, construction, and maintenance to avoid unwanted acoustic effects and to fully exploit the potential of SDA pavements.
Pavement type transitions
The acoustical emission differences between low-noise and conventional surfaces can be up to 10 d...
Concrete elements on the roadway
Due to the high mechanical loads from braking and accelerating buses or from centrifugal forces i...
Markings
Another disturbance potential arises from road markings, distinguishing between structural markin...
Traffic light systems with detectors
If detectors for traffic light systems are embedded in the roadway and no level differences occur...
Tram tracks
When crossing tram tracks in a transverse direction, impulse noises may occur. However, crossing ...
Slope
In general, it should be noted that low-noise surfaces lose effectiveness on steeper gradients (>...