Concrete pavements have seen significant advancements in the 21st century, revolutionizing the way highways are constructed and maintained. One of the most notable innovations was the development of the Next Generation Concrete Surface (NGCS) in the early 2000s, according to the International Grooving & Grinding Association (IGGA). This breakthrough, created through collaboration between industry leaders such as IGGA, the American Concrete Pavement Association, and several universities, was designed to reduce tire-pavement noise while maintaining excellent ride quality and safety. NGCS introduced a hybrid surface texture combining diamond grinding and longitudinal grooving, resulting in one of the quietest and smoothest concrete surfaces available for both new and rehabilitated roadways.
In addition to NGCS, the 2000s saw the rise of Concrete Pavement Preservation (CPP) and diamond grinding as essential techniques for extending the lifespan of existing infrastructure. These methods have proven to be both cost-effective and environmentally sustainable. CPP targets areas of distress on structurally sound concrete pavements, offering long-lasting repairs, while diamond grinding enhances pavement smoothness, improving fuel efficiency and reducing carbon emissions. These techniques have become vital in achieving long-term environmental benefits and maintaining the integrity of roads across the country.
Looking ahead, the Buried Treasure concept, gaining momentum by 2014, showcases the industry’s commitment to innovative preservation strategies. By removing aging asphalt overlays and applying low-noise surface finishes to exposed concrete, this technique recovers otherwise functional pavements. Additionally, the 2023 release of a carbon savings calculator by IGGA and MIT’s CSHub highlights the continued drive toward sustainability, enabling the industry to quantify the environmental benefits of improved pavement smoothness. As the IGGA celebrates over 50 years of leadership in pavement optimization, the future of concrete innovation remains bright, fueled by the ingenuity and dedication of industry professionals.
Read more here: https://www.igga.net/post/welcome-to-part-six-of-our-series-back-to-the-future-concrete-s-role-in-preserving-the-interstate