UC Davis Institute of Transportation Studies

Tire/pavement noise was measured on 24 bridge sections (a) to identify relationships between tire/pavement noise and variables observed in concrete pavement and bridge decks, (b) to determine trends in noise levels versus age for concrete pavement and bridge decks, and (c) to develop recommendations on surface textures to minimize tire/pavement noise. Tire/pavement noise was measured using the on-board sound intensity (OBSI) method. Of the six texture types tested, diamond-ground decks are the quietest, followed by polyester overlays.