kulutuspäällysteissä

Kulutuspäällysteissä, known in English as wearing courses or surface courses, refers to the uppermost layer of a pavement structure, such as a road or runway. This layer is specifically designed to withstand direct contact with traffic, weather, and environmental factors. Its primary function is to provide a smooth, safe, and durable riding surface for vehicles.

The materials used in kulutuspäällysteissä are typically asphaltic concrete (bituminous concrete) or Portland cement concrete. Asphaltic concrete mixes are common, consisting of aggregates (stones, gravel, sand) bound together by bitumen, a petroleum-based binder. These mixes can be designed with varying aggregate sizes and binder contents to achieve desired properties like skid resistance, flexibility, and resistance to rutting and cracking. Concrete pavements, on the other hand, use cement, aggregates, and water to form a rigid slab.

Key performance requirements for kulutuspäällysteissä include adequate skid resistance to prevent accidents, good drainage to manage surface water, resistance to deformation under load, and durability against wear and tear. The design and selection of materials for the wearing course are critical for the overall performance and lifespan of the pavement. Maintenance activities often focus on this top layer, addressing issues like surface wear, cracking, and potholes to ensure continued functionality and safety.