Evaluation of Hydroplaning Risk on Permeable Friction Course using Tire-Water-Pavement Interaction Model

Wet weather-related hazards such as hydroplaning can be reduced with the proper use of permeable friction course (PFC). At low rainfall intensities, PFC provides quick drainage of water and better skid resistance. However, at higher rainfall rates, the entire volume of runoff cannot be discharged within the porous layer, causing drainage to occur on pavement surface. Water flow on the road surface can result in hydroplaning of tires. The objective of the study is to evaluate hydroplaning risk of multi-lane roadways with PFC using a fluid-structure interaction model. A comprehensive three-dimensional grooved tire-water-pavement interaction model was developed to predict hydroplaning speeds on different pavement surfaces, rainfall intensities, and rutting depths for the passenger car tire with anti-lock braking system. The results demonstrate that PFC can effectively reduce hydroplaning risk for two-lane roadways under light rain rate to moderate rain rate as compared with impervious pavements. The hydroplaning risk becomes more apparent as the number of traffic lanes increases or with the presence of pavement rutting. However, hydroplaning risk on roadways with more than six traffic lanes under heavy rainfall intensity can still exist on PFC. The study results can be useful for both driver and transportation agencies to improve driving safety in wet weather.