Time resolved analysis of water drainage in porous asphalt concrete using neutron radiography

Porous asphalt as a road surface layer controls aquaplaning as rain water can drain through its highly porous structure. The process of water drainage through this permeable layer is studied using neutron radiography. Time-resolved water configuration and distribution within the porous structure are reported. It is shown that radiography depicts the process of liquid water transport within the complex geometry of porous asphalt, capturing water films, filled dead end pores and water islands.

► The water drainage process in porous asphalt was studied using neutron radiography.
► Despite similar mix designs, different processes of water transport were established.
► Water transport within porous asphalt showed filled dead end pores and water islands.