Tire-Pavement Interface Noise: Mechanisms and Mitigation

Among the many contributors to pavement noise, tire-pavement interface noise (TPIN) plays a significant role. Although considerations of pavement noise are often overlooked during pavement design and construction, the expansion of transportation networks within cities warrants designing and maintaining quieter pavements to reduce TPIN. The objectives of this research are to explain noise-generation and noise-reduction mechanisms, describe pavement noise mitigation practices, and propose further research on these topics. TPIN can be caused by aerodynamic, vibro-dynamic, and adhesion mechanisms. Noise-reduction mechanisms (NRMs) are methods by which the amplitude and intensity of sound can be reduced. When applied to pavements, NRMs can be categorized as porous sound absorption, resonance sound absorption, connected pore excretion, control of sound propagation path, and damping. Specific types of pavements can be used to mitigate TPIN. However, the most common pavement noise prevention method is the application of a properly designed noise-reducing wearing course (NRWC). Three areas recommended for further research include using recurring cleanings over time for unclogging pores in NRWCs, methods of preventing or reducing aging of asphalt while preserving the noise-reduction properties of NRWCs, and the utilization of porous ultra-thin overlays.