Information synthesis and preliminary case study for life cycle assessment of reflective coatings for cool pavements

This paper synthesizes existing available information and knowledge to enhance the understanding of the environmental impact of material production and construction of pavement reflective coatings. This work was performed through a literature survey of current technologies and products. Discussed in the paper are the classification, components, production method, typical albedo values and durability, application scope and rate, application method, and a preliminary partial assessment of the environmental impacts of pavement reflective coatings. The preliminary case study shows that compared to HMA and PCC overlays and even slurry seals, reflective coatings could have lower environmental impacts depending on their durability. However, unlike overlays, reflective coatings do not improve the surface smoothness and ride quality and therefore do not improve fuel consumption and user comfort during the use phase, which was not included in this preliminary LCA case study. The reflective coatings and slurry seal also do not improve structural capacity of the pavement.