Scorching temperatures cause chaos on Thuringian highways!
In the sweltering heat of summer, roads across Thuringia are feeling the strain. The region's road infrastructure is operating in 'heat mode', with speed limits being introduced on certain sections as a precaution to minimize the risk of accidents.
The heat is taking its toll on the road surfaces, particularly older concrete roads. These aged surfaces are at risk of heat damage, which can lead to sudden bulges or cracks known as "blow-ups". In high heat, bitumen, the binding agent in asphalt obtained from crude oil, becomes softer and can deform, leading to rutting and other surface deformations.
However, the spokesperson for the Autobahn GmbH has reassured the public that the risk of heat damage on modern concrete road surfaces can be virtually excluded due to today's construction methods and safety concepts. Key factors in preventing heat damage on modern concrete road surfaces are so-called relief cuts - deliberate joints in the concrete that relieve the material during heat expansion.
Not only concrete, but also asphalt can show weaknesses in extreme heat. Asphalt surfaces can become soft and greasy at high temperatures, leading to rutting, sticking, or bumps forming on the road surface. This not only damages the pavement but can create hazardous driving conditions due to poor braking and uneven surfaces.
To combat these issues, countermeasures focus on expanding design tolerances, material improvements, maintenance, and traffic risk management. Engineering asphalt to better withstand high temperatures reduces softening and rutting. Regular inspection and timely maintenance during heat events improve safety and asset longevity. Traffic management measures, such as advisories to reduce speed and exercise caution over affected road sections during heat waves, help mitigate accident risks caused by uneven or damaged surfaces.
Research and adaptation to climate impacts are also essential. Considering future climate trends in pavement design and material selection is crucial, given increased frequency of extreme heat and other climate risks.
Despite the precautions taken, no damage has been reported yet on Thuringian highways. However, the situation remains tense, and the Autobahn GmbH appeals to road users to exercise particular caution due to workers working under extreme heat conditions to protect the highway infrastructure. If damage does occur, swift action is needed for repair, usually done by targeted removal of the affected area and filling it with asphalt.
In summary, heat-related damage to highways results primarily from thermal expansion in concrete and softening of asphalt surfaces, causing buckling, rutting, and surface deterioration. Countermeasures focus on expanding design tolerances, material improvements, maintenance, and traffic risk management to preserve pavement integrity and user safety under extreme heat.
- The threat of climate-change and increased heat waves can lead to damage on modern road surfaces, particularly those made of asphalt, which can soften and deform.
- To counteract these issues, the industry is focusing on engineering asphalt to withstand high temperatures, improving materials, regular maintenance during heat events, and traffic risk management.
- In addition, research and adaptation to future climate trends in pavement design and material selection are essential to combat the increased frequency of extreme heat and other climate risks.
- In the environmental-science and finance sectors, investments in public-transit and improvements in transportation technologies, such as electric vehicles, could help reduce the dependence on fossil fuels and lessen the impact on the environment.
- Weather forecasting plays a crucial role in preparation for extreme heat events, enabling the transportation sector, including automotive and road construction companies, to adapt and take necessary precautions to minimize damage and maintain safety.
