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Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development

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A special issue of Sustainability (ISSN 2071-1050). This special issue belongs to the section "Sustainable Transportation".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 May 2022) | Viewed by 23142

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Hernán Gonzalo-Orden

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Guest Editor

Department of Civil Engineering, University of Burgos, 09001 Burgos, Spain
Interests: pavement engineering; transport systems; road safety

Dr. Heriberto Pérez-Acebo

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Guest Editor

Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty of Engineering of Bilbao, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Pº Rafael Moreno "Pitxitxi", 2, 48013 Bilbao, Spain
Interests: pavement deterioration; pavement performance; modelsskid resistance; traffic calming measures; tunneling

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

With the growing concern about climate change, major efforts are being introduced in all fields that produce greenhouse gases (GHG). Transportation is said to be responsible for more than 25% of GHG emissions and, hence, many initiatives are taken to reduce emissions. For example, in 2011, the European Union established numerous goals toward building a competitive transportation system but, at the same time, to also cut carbon emissions due to transportation by 60% in 2050. In the field of road transportation, efforts are oriented to develop two main areas: sustainable roads and efficient road transportation.

With regard to sustainable roads, research is focused on the production of new long-lasting materials in pavement construction, introduction of more sustainable materials (as a result of introducing waste materials, for example), better management of pavements and maintenance and rehabilitation techniques, etc. The development of energy-harvesting pavements is another way of creating greener road infrastructures.

On the other hand, efficient road transportation of passenger and freight aims to implement road traffic policies as well as innovative mobility services and solutions aiming to reduce pollution and, at the same time, support the present road transportation demands. This objective can be developed by means of any of the smart and emerging technologies (shared mobility, cooperative driving), intelligent transportation systems (ITS), digitalization, new policies, model simulation, use of big data, etc.

Consequently, submitted papers can target various different fields including, but not limited to the following.

In the area of sustainable roads:

Geometric design of roads, including junctions and roundabouts
Safer roads
Introduction of waste materials in pavement construction
Recycling of reclaimed asphalt pavement
Soil stabilization
Structural performance modeling
Surface characteristics
Analysis of the lifecycle cost analysis of pavements
Road infrastructure preservation
Pavement design methodologies
Maintenance and rehabilitation strategies
Pavement performance prediction models
Pavement maintenance optimization models
Energy-harvesting pavements

In the area of efficient road transportation:

Road transportation demand analysis and evaluation
Road transportation policies developing innovative mobility services and solutions
Sustainable passenger and freight transportation model simulation
Congestion reductions innovative techniques
Sustainable road transportation policies
Economics of road mobility and transportation
Road transportation digitalization
Evaluation of road transportation emissions
Safer road transportation
Innovative road mobility services for people and goods
Big data analysis for sustainable road transportation
Changes in road mobility behavior
Shared road mobility

Prof. Dr. Hernán Gonzalo-Orden
Dr. Heriberto Pérez-Acebo
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Sustainability is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2400 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

roads; highway; freeway; sustainability; pavement design; road materials; sustainable pavements; pavement management; pavement maintenance; pavement rehabilitation; lifecycle cost analysis; pavement performance models; pavement deterioration models; big data; soil stabilization; reclaimed asphalt pavement; waste materials in pavements; sustainable construction materials; road infrastructure management; geometric design of roads; roundabout; road safety; environment friendly pavement; pavement service life; cementitious materials; pavement design; energy-harvesting pavements; sustainable road transportation; innovative road mobility; road transportation modeling; travel behavior; road transport demand analysis; transport economics; road transportation policy; traffic delays; sustainable road passenger transportation; sustainable freight road transportation; congestion mitigation; shared mobility; traffic flow modeling; traffic simulation; smart infrastructures; smart road mobility; road transport emissions

Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

13 pages, 2075 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Prediction of International Roughness Index Based on Stacking Fusion Model

by Zhiyuan Luo, Hui Wang and Shenglin Li

Sustainability 2022, 14(12), 6949; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14126949 - 07 Jun 2022

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 2289

Abstract

Pavement performance prediction is necessary for road maintenance and repair (M&R) management and plans. The accuracy of performance prediction affects the allocation of maintenance funds. The international roughness index (IRI) is essential for evaluating pavement performance. In this study, using the road pavement data of LTPP (Long-Term Pavement Performance), we screened the feature parameters used for IRI prediction using the mean decrease impurity (MDI) based on random forest (RF). The effectiveness of this feature selection method was proven suitable. The prediction accuracies of four promising prediction models were compared, including Gradient Boosting Decision Tree (GBDT), eXtreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), support vector machine (SVM), and multiple linear regression (MLR). The two integrated learning algorithms, GBDT and XGBoost, performed well in prediction. GBDT performs best with the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) of 0.096 and the lowest mean absolute error (MAE) of 6.2% and the coefficient of determination (R²) reaching 0.974. However, the prediction accuracy varies in numerical intervals, with some deviations. The stacking fusion model with a powerful generalization capability is proposed to build a new prediction model using GBDT and XGBoost as the base learners and bagging as the meta-learners. The R², RMSE, and MAE of the stacking fusion model are 0.996, 0.040, and 1.3%, which further improves the prediction accuracy and verifies the superiority of this fusion model in pavement performance prediction. Besides, the prediction accuracy is generally consistent across different numerical intervals. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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14 pages, 5311 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Statistical Study Based on the Kriging Method and Geographic Mapping in Rigid Pavement Defects in Southern Chile

by Diana Movilla-Quesada, Julio Rojas-Mora and Aitor C. Raposeiras

Sustainability 2022, 14(1), 585; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su14010585 - 05 Jan 2022

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 6392

Abstract

ASTM D6433 is used to assess the need for maintenance of pavement sections. Although the Pavement Condition Index (PCI) factor calculation method provides reliable values, this method analyzes sections and defects individually and indicates current maintenance needs, but it cannot be used to predict the occurrence of new defects. Therefore, it is necessary to complement this method by considering variables that influence the occurrence of faults, among which are the geospatial distribution and the specific characteristics of the slabs. This research focuses on the identification of multiple types of disturbances that exist in Portland Cement Pavements (PCC), located in a high traffic area in the city of Valdivia (Chile). A spatial geostatistical relationship is established through visual inspection using geographical maps, as well as distribution, using the kriging method. This technique makes use of variograms that allow quantifying the parameters used in this study, thus expressing the spatial autocorrelation of the faults analyzed. From the results obtained by spatial geostatistics and kriging, it is possible to generate a data correlation for the distribution and characteristics of the streets considered. In addition, a co-kriging method is established instead of an ordinary kriging method. The relationship between observed and predicted values improved from 0.3327 to 0.5770. The width of the slabs, as well as some streets, is shown in our analysis to be unimportant. For better model accuracy, the number of covariates associated with the type of vehicle traffic, the age and shape of the slabs, and the construction techniques used for the pavement needs to increase. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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19 pages, 3272 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Compaction Quality Control in the Core of Random Fillings within Linear Infrastructures: Application to Metamorphic Slate Fillings

by Evelio Teijón-López-Zuazo, Ángel Vega-Zamanillo, Miguel Ángel Calzada-Pérez and Luis Juli-Gándara

Sustainability 2021, 13(19), 10957; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su131910957 - 02 Oct 2021

Viewed by 1284

Abstract

The construction of random fillings from the excavation of medium hardness rocks, with high particle sizes, presents limitations in compaction control. This research applies new control techniques with revised test procedures in the construction of the random fillings core, which constitutes the main part of the embankment, with the bigger volume and provides the geotechnical stability to the infrastructure. The maximum thickness over each of the compacted layers researched that made up the random fillings was 800 mm. As there are many types of rocks, this research is applied to metamorphic slates. Quality control was carried out by applying new research associated with the revision of wheel impression test, topographic settlements, and plate bearing test (PBT). Thus, new test procedures are established, defining efficient thresholds. Comparisons make it possible to choose representative tests, avoiding duplication. The optimization of control reduces inspection times, ensuring quality adapted to the high construction efficiency of diggings. Traditionally, rocks were rejected due to their maximum size, underutilizing the use of high-quality materials. Promoting their utilization implies a better use of resources, and therefore, a higher environmental efficiency. A statistical analysis of the core of 16 slate random fillings was carried out, with a total of 2250 in situ determination of density and moisture content, 75 wheel impression tests, 75 topographic settlement controls, and 75 PBT. The strong associations found between different tests allowed to simplify the quality control. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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15 pages, 1956 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Analysis of Greenhouse Gas Emissions and the Environmental Impact of the Production of Asphalt Mixes Modified with Recycled Materials

by Diana Movilla-Quesada, Manuel Lagos-Varas, Aitor C. Raposeiras, Osvaldo Muñoz-Cáceres, Valerio C. Andrés-Valeri and Carla Aguilar-Vidal

Sustainability 2021, 13(14), 8081; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13148081 - 20 Jul 2021

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 2505

Abstract

This research focuses on the production and construction stages of the life cycle analysis (LCA) of asphalt mixtures modified with industrial waste and by-products, based on the quantification of methane (CH₄), carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions produced during these processes. A laboratory-designed and calibrated gas measurement system with a microcontroller and MQ sensors is used to compare the emissions (GHG) of a “conventional” asphalt mix with those emitted by waste-modified asphalt mixes (polyethylene terephthalate and nylon fibres) and industrial by-products (copper slag and cellulose ash). The results obtained show that the gases emitted by each type of material can influence the design criteria from an environmental perspective. Methane gas emissions for asphalt mixes made with polymeric materials increase compared to the production phase of a conventional mix (M1) by 21% for PET and 14% for nylon. In contrast, for mixtures made with copper slag and cellulose ash, this emission is reduced by 12%. In addition, the use of copper slag and cellulose ash to replace natural aggregates reduces greenhouse gas emissions by 15% during the production phase and contributes to the creation of photochemical ozone for a shorter period of time. Regarding carbon dioxide emission, it increases considerably for all asphalt mixes, by 26% and 44.5% for cellulose ash and copper slag, respectively. For asphalt mixtures made of polymeric materials, the increase in carbon dioxide emission is significant, 130% for PET and 53% for nylon. In addition, it is noted that for this type of material, not only the emission of the gas must be taken into consideration, but also the time that the volatile particles spend in the atmosphere, affecting climate change and photochemical ozone (smog). The carbon monoxide gases emitted in the production phase of all the asphalt mixes analysed is similar among them. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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15 pages, 4838 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Managing Traffic Data through Clustering and Radial Basis Functions

by Heber Hernández, Elisabete Alberdi, Heriberto Pérez-Acebo, Irantzu Álvarez, María José García, Isabel Eguia and Kevin Fernández

Sustainability 2021, 13(5), 2846; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13052846 - 05 Mar 2021

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 1991

Abstract

Due to the importance of road transport an adequate identification of the various road network levels is necessary for an efficient and sustainable management of the road infrastructure. Additionally, traffic values are key data for any pavement management system. In this work traffic volume data of 2019 in the Basque Autonomous Community (Spain) were analyzed and modeled. Having a multidimensional sample, the average annual daily traffic (AADT) was considered as the main variable of interest, which is used in many areas of the road network management. First, an exploratory analysis was performed, from which descriptive statistical information was obtained continuing with the clustering by various variables in order to standardize its behavior by translation. In a second stage, the variable of interest was estimated in the entire road network of the studied country using linear-based radial basis functions (RBFs). The estimated model was compared with the sample statistically, evaluating the estimation using cross-validation and highest-traffic sectors are defined. From the analysis, it was observed that the clustering analysis is useful for identifying the real importance of each road segment, as a function of the real traffic volume and not based on other criteria. It was also observed that interpolation methods based on linear-type radial basis functions (RBF) can be used as a preliminary method to estimate the AADT. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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21 pages, 7619 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Environmental Effects of Eco-Driving on Courier Delivery

by Juan Francisco Coloma, Marta García, Gonzalo Fernández and Andrés Monzón

Sustainability 2021, 13(3), 1415; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su13031415 - 29 Jan 2021

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 2771

Abstract

In recent years, eco-driving has proven to be an effective tool for reducing fuel consumption and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Until now, most research carried out has focused on ordinary drivers applying eco-driving techniques on their usual routes. However, there is little research on professional driver couriers. This research is aimed at analyzing the effects that eco-driving has on fuel consumption and GHG emissions on courier deliveries in small cities such as Caceres (Spain). For this purpose, a real-life experiment was performed with professional drivers with Spanish post vans from the public sector company Correos. In the first period, driving was under normal conditions (non-eco), and after a theoretical training eco-driving course, there was a second driving period (eco). Driving parameters (speeds, accelerations, rpm, and consumptions) were recorded on all trips to analyze how effective the eco-driving was. The research concluded that eco-driving training does not correlate with more sustainable driving for professional drivers under pressure with the need to deliver packages on time. However, there is a trend in fuel savings when using higher capacity routes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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20 pages, 3096 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Influence of Pavement Structure, Traffic, and Weather on Urban Flexible Pavement Deterioration

by David Llopis-Castelló, Tatiana García-Segura, Laura Montalbán-Domingo, Amalia Sanz-Benlloch and Eugenio Pellicer

Sustainability 2020, 12(22), 9717; https://0-doi-org.brum.beds.ac.uk/10.3390/su12229717 - 21 Nov 2020

Cited by 34 | Viewed by 4551

Abstract

Various studies have been recently conducted to predict pavement condition, but most of them were developed in a certain region where climate conditions were kept constant and/or the research focused on specific road distresses using single parameters. Thus, this research aimed at determining the influence of pavement structure, traffic demand, and climate factors on urban flexible pavement condition over time. To do this, the Structural Number was used as an indicator of the pavement capacity, various traffic and climate variables were defined, and the Pavement Condition Index was used as a surrogate measure of pavement condition. The analysis was focused on the calibration of regression models by using the K-Fold Cross Validation technique. As a result, for a given pavement age, pavement condition worsens as the Equivalent Single Axle Load and the Annual Average Height of Snow increased. Likewise, a cold Annual Average Temperature (5–15 °C) and a large Annual Average Range of Temperature (20–30 °C) encourage a more aggressive pavement deterioration process. By contrast, warm climates with low temperature variations, which are associated with low precipitation, lead to a longer pavement service life. Additionally, a new classification of climate zones was proposed on the basis of the weather influence on pavement deterioration. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Road Traffic and Pavement Engineering toward Sustainable Development)

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