Tarmac has successfully trialed new formulations of noise-reducing concrete on a 1.5 km stretch of the eastbound A30 near Penzance, Cornwall reports The Construction Index. Conducted in collaboration with National Highways, Wirtgen, Topoff, and Atmo Technology, the trial involved testing five distinct surface profiles designed to reduce noise and improve skid resistance. The innovative process included creating grooves in the existing concrete pavement while grinding raised turrets to add texture. Results revealed that all five profiles reduced traffic noise by up to seven decibels, marking a significant advancement in quieter road surfaces.
The concept of noise-reducing concrete, once referred to as “whisper concrete,” first emerged in the 1990s but was discontinued in 2001. This revival aims to tackle the challenges posed by the traditional grooves in concrete roads, which often generate unwanted noise. The new single-pass process developed by the project team minimizes material removal, extending the lifespan of treated surfaces from five years to 10-15 years. This approach not only improves the road’s durability but also reduces maintenance costs and environmental impacts over the pavement’s lifecycle.
Approximately 4% of the UK’s strategic road network comprises concrete roads, many built in the 1970s and 1980s. As National Highways embarks on a broader program to replace aging concrete carriageways, this trial offers a promising interim solution. The successful reduction in road noise and enhanced ride quality indicate a potential shift in concrete road rehabilitation, with Tarmac continuing to work on refining the preferred surface profile for future applications. These developments underline the potential for quieter, more sustainable, and cost-effective roadways in the UK.
Read more here: https://www.theconstructionindex.co.uk/news/view/the-return-of-whisper-concrete