Cellklyftor

Cellklyftor is a term used in Swedish to describe a phenomenon where two adjacent pavement slabs lift up from the ground and create a small gap, typically between a few millimeters to a few centimeters in width. This phenomenon is also known as pavement deflection or pavement heaving.

Cellklyftor can occur due to various reasons such as soil settlement, water infiltration, or thermal expansion of the pavement material. Soil settlement can cause the ground beneath the pavement to sink, leading to a displacement of the slabs. Water infiltration can cause the soil to expand and become more buoyant, pushing the slabs upward. Thermal expansion can also occur when the pavement material heats up and expands in the summer months, creating a gap between the slabs.

Cellklyftor is more common in areas with unstable soil or in regions with high water table levels. It can also be exacerbated by faulty pavement design, inadequate drainage, or inadequate maintenance. In some cases, cellklyftor can be a sign of more extensive issues with the pavement structure.

In urban areas, cellklyftor can become a nuisance, especially when it occurs in pedestrian walkways or bike paths. While it may not be a safety hazard per se, it can create an uneven surface that can trip pedestrians or damage bike wheels. Maintenance personnel often try to seal the gaps with caulk or specialized pavement sealants to prevent water from infiltrating the soil. In more severe cases, pavement replacement may be necessary to address the underlying issues causing the cellklyftor.