The North Carolina Department of Transportation (NCDOT) is teaming up with university research partners to develop a new method to enhance skid resistance along highways.
One of the strategies that the team is looking at is shotblasting the final pavement surface. This generates more texture on the surface to allow for better drainage during rain and other wet weather. It also enhances frictional forces between the tire and the pavement.
The shotblasting machine collects dust and contaminants during the process. These benefits should work together to help reduce hydroplaning accidents.
According to NCDOT, this method has been used on new pavement between southeast Raleigh and Clayton along the Interstate 40 project. Once it opens, drivers will notice a discoloration on the new pavement due to the shotblasting.
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Source: NCDOT, ABC 11
