What is the purpose of conducting a "friction test" on asphalt pavements?

The purpose of conducting a friction test on asphalt pavements is to evaluate the surface's skid resistance and safety. This evaluation is crucial because skid resistance directly affects vehicle control, especially during wet conditions. When the pavement surface has adequate friction, it helps prevent accidents by allowing vehicles to stop quickly and maintain control during cornering.

Skid resistance is measured to ensure that road surfaces provide enough grip for vehicles, especially in adverse weather conditions such as rain or snow. If a surface is too slippery, it can lead to a high rate of accidents, making it essential to perform friction tests as part of routine pavement evaluations and maintenance.

Understanding skid resistance is vital for highway safety management, and the results from these tests guide decisions on pavement treatments, maintenance, and material selection to enhance the safety and performance of roadways.