Evaluation of the benefits of open graded friction course: Case study

The field performance tests were conducted to assess the permeability, friction, and noise functionality over time. The selected test methods included the NCAT falling head permeameter test, locked-wheel skid trailer test, and On-Board Sound Intensity test. The field performance results demonstrated that the Las Vegas OGFC pavement exhibited benefits in permeability, friction, and noise reduction compared to the DGHMA pavement, while the Elko OGFC pavement showed comparable performance with the DGHMA pavement after 2-years of service. Finally, a cost-benefit analysis was conducted to monetize the advantages and disadvantages of OGFC pavements. As demonstrated in the economic analysis, the OGFC pavement in Las Vegas reduced the net present value of OGFC costs by 36%, while the OGFC pavement in Elko increased the net present value of costs by 86%. This indicates that the implementation of OGFC is cost-effective in rural highways but impractical in urban or town areas. High speed traffic is generally needed to help keep the interconnected voids of an OGFC pavement from becoming clogged over time. As a result of the reduced speed on the Elko project, the permeability functionality was lost after one year and the noise reduction benefit was lost after thirty two months.