Rolling surface evaluation model considering topographic, geotechnical, and climatic aspects in low-volume roads: case study in Aquiraz, Ceará, Brazil

Abstract

This paper presents an innovative model for assessing surface conditions in low-volume roads. The proposed approach focuses on intemperate weather influences (e.g., rain, wind), traffic, soil type, and relief in the reduction of the level of service of the unpaved road. It is concerned with the evolution of distress present in unpaved roads. The intention is to improve the performance evaluation method for surface conditions proposed by Correia et al., the ALYNO method. A case study is presented for the municipality of Aquiraz, Ceará, Brazil. A mathematical model is developed to forecast a performance evaluation model by using a topographical survey of unpaved roads; the result is the modified method called ALYNOMO. The main performance evaluation methods of surface conditions for unpaved roads are also studied. Several considerations about the geometric evolution of distress according to the usefulness of the studied branch are drawn from the case study. This research contributes toward improving the unpaved performance evaluation process and the ALYNO method, proposing a model to forecast the performance for regular and appropriate unpaved roads. The need for rational maintenance of this type of road is emphasized.