Enhancing the Functionality of Pervious Concrete Pavements through Design and Maintenance

Stormwater runoffs in urban areas are the primary cause of multiple environmental issues such as pollution of water bodies, reduction of groundwater recharge, and increase in the rivers' water temperature. Each of these impacts has a wide range of environmental ripple effects. Runoffs can be effectively controlled by applying the best management practices. Pervious concrete pavements are one of the most effective tools for implementing these practices in urban stormwater management. Numerous environmental benefits of these pavements have caused them to be widely replaced with the conventional concrete. However, considering the relatively short history of these pavements, there are still common issues in their application. Additionally, further enhancement of pavement technology depends on resolving certain limitations through further research. This paper discusses the major common issues in design, construction, and maintenance of these pavements that can lower the permeability in the surface, lead to functional deterioration, decrease service life, and reduce the efficiency of pervious pavements as a system in collecting runoffs. Recommended policies to resolve each of the issues are provided. The paper also discusses different existing limitations such as low compression strength and resistance against freeze-thaw and suggests potentials for further research to enhance the permeability and durability of the pervious concrete pavements.