What is moisture-induced damage in asphalt commonly referred to as?

Moisture-induced damage in asphalt is commonly referred to as stripping. This phenomenon occurs when water penetrates the asphalt pavement structure, leading to the weakening of the bond between the asphalt binder and the aggregate particles. When this bond is compromised, it results in the loss of aggregate from the asphalt matrix, which can create surface defects and reduce the overall durability and performance of the pavement.

Stripping is particularly important to address because it can significantly impact the longevity of the asphalt pavement, especially in areas subjected to repeated moisture exposure. Understanding the causes and symptoms of stripping allows for better design, material selection, and maintenance practices to enhance the resilience of asphalt pavements against moisture infiltration.

The other terms listed, such as fatigue cracking, rutting, and oxidation, pertain to different forms of distress in asphalt pavements. Fatigue cracking is related to the repeated loading and unloading cycles that cause cracks to develop over time. Rutting refers to permanent deformation in the wheel paths due to heavy traffic loads, while oxidation is a process that affects the binder over time, leading to brittleness and a higher susceptibility to cracking. Each of these forms of damage involves different mechanisms and contributing factors, highlighting the importance of recognizing moisture-induced stripping distinctly for effective pavement management.