Friday, 5 July 2024
Austroads has published an interactive map of the latest Weighted Mean Annual Pavement Temperature (WMAPT) data for Australia and New Zealand. This resource is designed to aid the design of asphalt pavements, reflecting the most recent changes in local temperatures due to climate change.
The performance of asphalt pavements, including aspects such as stiffness, rutting resistance, and fatigue life, is dependent on temperature. An accurate understanding of the temperatures that asphalt materials are subjected to in the field is essential for effective pavement design. Austroads’ Guide to Pavement Technology Part 2: Pavement Structural Design uses WMAPT data to estimate asphalt moduli at in-service temperatures, a factor in ensuring the durability and effectiveness of pavement structures.
“The integration of updated WMAPT data is a crucial step in adapting our pavement design practices to the realities of a changing climate. The map not only provides a comprehensive visual representation of current pavement temperatures but also underscores our commitment to incorporating climate change considerations into our infrastructure planning,” said Austroads Environment and Sustainability Program Manager, Joanne Vanselow.
The map lists WMAPT values for approximately 250 locations across Australia and New Zealand. This update ensures that pavement designers and engineers have access to the most current information, enabling them to make informed decisions about pavement materials and design strategies.
Looking ahead, Austroads is launching a new project aimed at estimating long-term projections of WMAPT. Once completed, these projections will be incorporated into the interactive map, providing an even more robust tool for future-proofing pavement design against the impacts of climate change.
“By anticipating future temperature trends, we can better prepare our infrastructure for the conditions it will face in the years to come,” Joanne Vanselow added. “This forward-thinking approach is essential for the sustainability and resilience of our transport networks.”
The updated WMAPT map is now available on the Austroads website, offering a valuable resource for industry professionals engaged in the planning, design, and maintenance of asphalt pavements.