Review of Asphalt Pavement Adaptation to Climate Change: Enhancing Resilience and Sustainability

Abstract

Climate change significantly accelerates the degradation of asphalt pavements due to elevated temperatures, heavy rainfall, flooding, and severe weather phenomena. These environmental stressors reduce pavement longevity, increase maintenance expenses, and pose safety risks. This study examined recent research on the effects of climate change on asphalt pavement performance and assessed adaptation strategies aimed at enhancing resilience and sustainability. The research consolidated discoveries concerning temperature-induced rutting, moisture-related fatigue cracking, and material deterioration resulting from freeze-thaw cycles. Essential adaptation strategies were categorised into three main types: material advancements, structural modifications, and maintenance technologies. Material developments emphasised high-performance binders, nanomaterial additions, and recycled components to enhance heat and moisture resistance. Structural changes improved drainage and energy efficiency, including the implementation of permeable pavements and thermoelectric systems. Maintenance strategies, such as optimisation-based scheduling, enhanced binder treatments, and predictive monitoring via the Internet of Things (IoT), provided proactive solutions to prolong pavement longevity. This study highlighted that effective adaptation relies on incorporating climatic data into design models and life-cycle cost evaluations. Despite the cost and technical capacity challenges, adopting climate-resilient technology is essential for sustainable road infrastructure. This research offered pragmatic recommendations to inform future engineering practices and policy decisions in climate-adaptive pavement design.