ABSTRACT
ABSTRACT: This paper aims to investigate if there is a direct correlation between the presence of chalk in the foundation level and the bearing capacity of roads where there is disintegration and cracking of the asphalt surface. Limited evidence has shown that the ingress of water through the surface cracks has resulted in premature failure of roads that are built on chalk substrate. Deflectograph surveys do not represent a valid method of assessing the residual life expectancy as the deflections will depend on the moisture impact on the chalk (i.e. long residual life when dry but no or negative life when chalk softens). The assessment methods and maintenance strategies for pavements resting on chalk will be different to that on other granular foundations. The main aim would be to seal the road surface from moisture ingress. This is particularly relevant to modern (porous) surfaces in comparison to conventional dense surfaces.
