Researchers are investigating whether geothermal technology could help prevent potholes by keeping roads at a more stable temperature year-round.
University of Surrey researchers will test whether a ground-source heating and cooling system can regulate road temperatures throughout the year, and help roads to better withstand the impact of extreme weather conditions.
Potholes form when water beneath the road surface weakens the underlying soil, reducing support for the asphalt layer above. Pressure from continuous traffic flow causes fatigue that starts with cracks, before the asphalt breaks up completely and creates a hole. Roads are at greater risk where drainage is poor, and in areas that experience periodic heavy rainfall or repeated freezing and thawing.
"Rather than reacting to potholes after they've formed, we're asking how we can prevent them in the first place,” said Dr Benyi Cao, project lead.“Our project will explore whether geothermal technology can help prevent pothole damage...