A comparative analysis of pavement design with a traditional empirical method and an advanced analytical system
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Since 2018, the Norwegian Public Road Administration (NPRA) has adopted, further developed, and implemented ERAPave PP, an advanced analytical pavement design and analysis system. This transition from traditional empirical methods to an analytical design system offers greater flexibility in selecting materials and determining layer thicknesses. By incorporating local conditions such as available materials, traffic loads, and climate, ERAPave PP provides a more comprehensive understanding of pavement deterioration.The adoption of ERAPave PP marks a significant shift in pavement design practices, allowing for more tailored and efficient solutions. This study aims to evaluate the impact of this transition by analyzing four test sections designed using both traditional empirical methods and the ERAPave PP system. The analysis focuses on how pavement design changes with the new system, as well as the associated material emissions and cost reductions. Preliminary findings indicate that ERAPave PP enables thinner pavement structures, thanks to the system’s ability to consider local conditions and give more accurate predictions of pavement performance and deterioration potentially leading to cost-effective pavement designs. Additionally, the flexibility in material selection and layer thicknesses can lead to significant cost savings and reduced environmental impact through lower material emissions.
Source: Transportation research procedia
Authors: Sara Anastasio, Brynhild Snilsberg
Language: English
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
Funder: Statens vegvesen
OpenAlex ID: W7204206207