What is "pavement fatigue"?

Pavement fatigue refers specifically to the deterioration of road surfaces due to repeated traffic loads over time. When vehicles travel over a pavement, the constant application of weight causes stress. As these loads are repeated, they can lead to structural changes and weakened areas in the pavement material. This distress often manifests as cracking and other surface failures, which can compromise the integrity and performance of the pavement.

Understanding this concept is crucial for highway construction and maintenance because it helps engineers and planners design pavements that can withstand the cumulative effects of traffic, thereby extending the lifespan of the road and ensuring safety for all users. By recognizing the signs of pavement fatigue, appropriate interventions can be made to maintain road quality and performance, such as resurfacing, repairs, or other maintenance strategies.