What is the main cause of highway pavement distresses?

The main cause of highway pavement distresses is traffic loading, weather conditions, and material fatigue. This answer encompasses the primary factors that impact the integrity of pavement over time.

Traffic loading refers to the stresses imposed by the weight and frequency of vehicles traveling on the surface, which can cause deformation, cracking, and ultimately failure of the pavement. The type and volume of traffic are crucial in determining how quickly distresses will develop.

Weather conditions also play a significant role; variations in temperature, moisture, and freeze-thaw cycles can lead to changes in pavement materials, resulting in expansion, contraction, and the formation of cracks. For example, freeze-thaw cycles can exacerbate any pre-existing cracks, allowing water to infiltrate and cause further damage.

Material fatigue is a critical factor, as over time, the materials used in pavement construction can degrade due to repeated stress and environmental exposure. This degradation can result in reduced load-bearing capacity and structural integrity, leading to various distress forms such as alligator cracking, raveling, and pavement buckling.

While poor drainage systems and insufficient material quality can contribute to deterioration, they are often secondary factors. Effective drainage can mitigate weather-related problems, and high-quality materials can withstand the stresses better, but without addressing