A laboratory and field recovery estimation of cleaned road surfaces after accidents spills contamination and traffic simulation

Contaminant spills from road accidents pose significant challenges to pavement performance and road safety, as they can lead to dangerous driving conditions. This study investigates the impact of vehicle tire passage on cleaned asphalt concrete pavements following hazardous liquid spills. A field trial was conducted to assess the functional characteristics of both cleaned and contaminated surfaces. Laboratory simulations utilising an experimental application of Hamburg Wheel Tracking Device and British Pendulum Tester evaluated pavement deterioration in terms of rutting and skid resistance. The results indicate that hydrocarbon contamination, particularly from petrol and diesel, significantly reduce skid resistance, with engine oil leading to the most substantial decline in performance. Although cleaning procedures can restore some degree of skid resistance, the presence of residual contaminants beneath the surface raises concerns regarding long-term pavement integrity. The variability in skid resistance values among different contaminant types suggests that not all pollutants impact pavement performance equally.