Road surface noise

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Tyre rolling noise is determined by the structure and texture of the road surface, as well as by the tyre design. Quiet road surfaces have the potential to cut road noise by over half to three-quarters compared to standard asphalt [1]. In addition, the noise performance of quiet tyres is enhanced when used on low-noise surfaces.

Roads constructed using one or two thin surface layers are quieter than the asphalt roads which are currently most common in Europe. Porous and poroelastic surfaces (sometimes made of recycled tyres) are even quieter (up to 12dB (A) quieter than standard surfaces), due to gaps in the surface texture which interact better with vehicle tyres [1]. Road authorities in several countries have invested in research to develop quieter surfaces which also correspond to cost, safety and durability requirements (notably Denmark, Germany, Netherlands and Japan).

Whilst low noise surfaces are comparatively expensive to apply and maintain, the costs must be considered in comparison with the total benefits of reducing traffic noise in terms of money saved on unsightly noise barriers, building insulation, health costs and property values. The use of low noise surfaces should clearly be prioritized, and targeted on the busiest roads in densely populated areas. The noise maps which will have to be produced by cities according to the Environmental Noise Directive will clearly identify which areas and road sections should be prioritized.

The European Commission is currently considering mandating the standardization authorities to create a classification for road surfaces according to noise levels. In fact, almost all European countries already have classification systems for road surfaces in terms of noise, but there is no harmonization across the EU. Creating a transparent and easily understandable framework for local, regional and municipal authorities is an essential first step to bring noise considerations into urban and spatial planning.

Future EU legislation should promote the use of low-noise road surfaces. For example, financial incentives in road surface laying contracts could correspond to safety, durability and noise criteria. Contracts should focus on performance and quality.

Links

European Commission funded projects:
SILVIA project (low noise road surfaces)

References

[1] IPG Road surface noise