Pavement Friction Estimation Based on the Heinrich/Klüppel Model

Abstract

Tire-pavement interaction is a critical analysis for conducting friction measurements and safety evaluation on highway pavements. Substantial field studies and research efforts indicate pavement friction can be predicted with tire/texture-related models (e.g. empirical or analytical models); however, developing a reliable friction prediction model for network level pavement survey still remains a challenge. In this paper Heinrich/Klüppel friction prediction model is utilized to estimate friction on Asphalt Concrete (AC) pavements. High resolution texture data are acquired from Ames high-speed profiling system, and subsequently pavement friction data are collected on the same sections with Dynatest 6875 Highway friction tester. Findings from the study indicate a good agreement between the predicted and measured Friction Numbers (FNs). It is concluded that Heinrich/Klüppel friction theory can be used as a promising surrogate for pavement safety evaluation. This study would be beneficial for complementing the existing safety evaluation methods used in highway safety program.