Technical Report

A multifunctional and sustainable pavement Using pervious concrete 2023-24
1. ABSTRACT
With the increasing urbanization and the challenges posed by climate change, there is an urgent
need to revolutionize traditional infrastructure to be more sustainable and environmentally
friendly. This technical seminar report delves into the innovative realm of pavement
engineering, focusing on the development and application of a multifunctional and sustainable
pavement system utilizing pervious concrete. Pervious concrete has emerged as a promising
solution to address several environmental and functional concerns associated with traditional
pavements. Furthermore, the incorporation of recycled aggregates and supplementary
cementitious materials in the pervious concrete mix contributes to waste reduction and
minimizes the carbon footprint associated with traditional concrete production. The sustainable
pavement system aligns with circular economy principles, promoting the efficient use of
resources and minimizing environmental impact. This report explores the field applications,
and case studies of pervious concrete pavements in different geographical and climatic
conditions. An in-depth analysis of the mechanical properties, permeability, and durability of
the material provides insights into its performance and applicability for diverse infrastructural
needs. The economic feasibility of implementing pervious concrete pavements is also
discussed, considering initial costs, life-cycle analysis, and potential long-term benefits. In
conclusion, the multifunctional and sustainable pavement using pervious concrete stands as a
groundbreaking innovation in the field of civil engineering. By addressing environmental
concerns, enhancing load-bearing capabilities, and embracing circular economy principles, this
pavement system exemplifies a holistic approach towards creating resilient and eco-friendly
urban infrastructure. The findings presented in this report contribute to the ongoing discourse
on sustainable urban development and offer practical insights for engineers, researchers, and
policymakers aiming to reshape the future of pavement engineering.
BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 1

2. INTRODUCTION
Fig 01 Image showing pervious concrete pavement
Sustainable development of transportation infrastructure in the urban environment require a

transition from energy-intensive construction method to low-impact development practise.
Low-impact development practise must bring together a framework that encompasses novel
materials, innovative designs, practicable procedures, and eco-friendly strategies to accomplish
endured sustainability for future generations. Generally, construction of road way facility is an
energy-intensive process, ranging from aggregate mining, material processing and production
as well as transportation and handling further, during the processing of raw material such as
asphalt cement or Portland cement and coarse aggregate to produce a mixture, significant
proportion of greenhouse gas (GHS) are emitted and a large amount of heat is generated that
adversely affects the environment
The total amount of energy consumed during production and placement of asphalt concrete and
cement concrete slabs is 680 MJ/ton and 738 MJ/ton respectively, while GHG emissions during
the process amount to around 54 kg/ton and 134 kg/ton respectively. Due to multitude of
benefits offered by PC there is a keen interest among global researchers to develop a robust
durable and long-lasting PCP systems.

The major of this topic assess the assess the existing literature review pertaining to PC
summarise the current state of the art with focus on mix design methodology and their impact
on mechanical and hydrological characteristics of PC. In addition to add supplementary
Cementous material , polymer fibre and recycled material on the properties of PC were
documented. To understanding the science behind of clogging material in PC and various
mitigation strategies the basic idea is to overlay the Pervious concrete material over a coarse-
grained granular layer such that it acts as a detention medium before draining or infiltration
stormwater into the natural ground. A geotextile filter fabric may be used at the interface of the
granular and subgrade wearing course to prevent intrusion of fines in different layers.
Fig 02 The concrete impact on environmental
• The present project topic describe about how to implement special concrete in order to
overcome the challenges like reduce Urban heat island, increase ground water recharge
and ecofriendly concrete to reduce carbon emission to atmosphere.
• We know that , different design mix of grade of concrete , different type of sustainability
material and mechanical and durability requirements of concrete. But in this technical
seminar we have to use that knowledge to access the possibility of reduce environmental
impact by using pervious concrete.

• Pervious concrete is a special type of concrete with a high porosity used for concrete
flatwork applications that allows water from precipitation and other source to pass
directly through, thereby reducing the runoff from a site and allowing groundwater
recharge.
PERCENTAGE
CARBON DIOXIDE
OF COCNRETE
EMISSION
PRODUCTION
AGRICLTURE
15% ELECTRICITY
8% 14% 12%
53% 9%
24% CONCRETE
29%
28%
8% TRANSPORAT
ATION
INDUSTRIAL
CHINA
Fig 03 concrete production by all over the world and emission of carbon dioxide
• In Global concrete production in 2022, Production 4.158 billion tons of cement, it is the
key ingredient in concrete. China was the largest producer by far, with over 2 billion
tones, followed by India at 370 million tones.
• From these, Carbon dioxide emissions: Cement production is responsible for an

estimated 8% of global CO2 emissions. In 2022, concrete production released
around 3.326 billion tons of CO2.
• It creates following problem

• Environmental impact
• Greenhouse gas emissions
• Air and water pollution
• Resource depletion: Deforestation.
• Biodiversity loss.
2.1 What is porous concrete?
Pervious concrete is a special class of roadway material, which is created by removing most or
some of the fine aggregate from conventional concrete such that a small fillet of cement paste
holds the matrix together ensuring interconnected macropores within the material
Fig 04: - A image showing pervious concrete pavement

Materials Used in Pervious Concrete and Their Specifications:
1. Cement:
Type: Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is commonly used.
Specification: ASTM C150 or equivalent standards.
Quantity: Typically ranges from 350 to 500 pounds per cubic yard, depending on the mix
design.
2. Aggregates:
Coarse Aggregates
Type Generally, angular crushed stones or gravel.
Size: Typically, 3/8 to 3/4 inch.
Specification: ASTM C33 or local equivalent.
Fine Aggregates:
Type: Natural or manufactured sand.
Size: Finer than traditional concrete aggregates.
Specification:ASTM C33 or local equivalent.
3. Water:
Quality: Clean and free from impurities.
Quantity: Typically, the water-cement ratio is kept low to maintain porosity.
Specification: Adheres to ASTM C94 standards.
4. Admixtures:
Air-Entraining Agents:
Purpose: Enhances freeze-thaw resistance.
Specification:ASTM C260 or equivalent.

Set Retarders or Accelerators:
Purpose: Adjusts setting time based on project needs.
5. Fibers:
Type: Synthetic or natural fibres.
Purpose: Enhances tensile strength and reduces cracking.
6. Chemical Stabilizers (Optional):
Purpose: Some projects may incorporate stabilizing chemicals to improve strength and
durability.
Specification: Follow manufacturer recommendations.
7. Recycled Materials:
Recycled Aggregates:
Type: Crushed recycled concrete or reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP).
Percentage: Varies, but can be up to 30% or more.
Specification: ASTM C33 or local equivalent for aggregates.
Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs):
Types Fly ash, silica fume, or slag.
Percentage: Typically, up to 30% replacement of cement.
Specification: ASTM C618 for fly ash, ASTM C1240 for silica fume, ASTM C989 for slag.
8. Porosity Enhancers:
Purpose: To further enhance permeability.
Types: Shredded tire particles, expanded glass beads, or lightweight aggregates.
Percentage: Varies based on project specifications.

These material specifications are crucial for achieving the desired properties of pervious
concrete, including porosity, strength, and durability. It's essential to adhere to these standards
to ensure the successful implementation of pervious concrete in various construction projects.
Adjustments to the mix design may be made based on project requirements and local conditions
while maintaining the overall goals of permeability and sustainability.
2.2 Mixing of pervious concrete
Pervious concrete pavement reduces the Urban Herat Island effect due to its high its high latent
capacity obtained by interconnected pore network structure
Exclusion of fine aggregate from mix design, this pavement material helps conserve depleting
natural sand deposits and minimizes pollutant emissions or energy required production of
manufactured sand.
• Characterization of physical properties
PC is an open/gap graded pavement material consisting of a large number of interconnected

pores with typical porosity values ranging from 15 to 35%. High porosity levels are achieved
by eliminating the fine aggregate content, and proportioning the w/c ratio to form a thin cement
coating around the aggregates. Therefore, porosity is the most essential design characteristic of
PC, unlike compressive strength, which is the design parameter for conventional concrete. Total
porosity is the summation of closed porosity and connected porosity . Closed porosity refers to
the disconnected porous channels whereas connected porosity indicates the network of
continuous paths for water to flow within PC.
Pervious concrete is a lightweight concrete made up of only coarse aggregate (passing through
20mm and retained on 10mm), cement and water with elimination of fine aggregates. It is also
known as pervious, open graded concrete or porous concrete. Typically, pervious concrete has
water to cementitious materials ratio (W/C) of 0.28 to 0.40. Comparing to conventional
concrete which has a void ratio of about 3-5%, pervious possesses void ratio as high as 15-40%
depending on its application. The high percentage of void ratio results in low unit weight of
about 70% of that of conventional concrete. This concrete is used as a paving material to
increase groundwater level and storm water runoff is minimized as it has high permeability
Pervious concrete have density about 25 to 30% less than the normal concrete due to pervious
aggregates, thus self-weight of structure is less. As it does not have sands or fine aggregates, it
has less drying shrinkage compared to normal concrete. It has better thermal insulating

characteristic than normal concrete and thus it is useful for construction of external wall. As it
has pervious aggregates, the surface area required for cement coating is reduced considerably.
So, quantity of cement required gets reduced per cubic meter compared with normal concrete.
Pervious concrete can be compacted without the need of any types of concrete vibrators and can
be easily done by tamping with rods. Lightweight concrete has no effect on quality due to
segregation of coarse aggregates as it has pervious aggregates. Thus, it can be dropped from
heights. The modulus of rupture of pervious concrete is about 30% of its compressive strength.
This proportion is higher than the normal weight concrete
Pervious concrete normally is not used in reinforced concrete. However, if it is essential to use
pervious concrete in reinforced concrete, then the reinforcement has to be coated with a thin layer
of about 3 mm of cement paste to improve its bond and prevent corrosion. Shot creating may be
applied for coating the reinforcement.
Today in the present world we are very much fond of sustainable and eco-friendly means of
construction. Particularly in a country like India where flooding and water-logging problems
are the major environmental issues sustainable development has become a necessity. Various
sustainable and eco-friendly means are being implemented to tackle these problems where
pervious concrete pavement is one among them. Working on “rain-drain” concept No-fine
concrete allows a significant amount of storm water to seep into the ground, thereby recharging
the ground water and reducing the storm water runoff.
Concrete is one of the largest consumable materials after water. The use of concrete is
increasing tremendously due to infrastructure developments taking place worldwide.
Impervious pavement is a major part of the infrastructure of the built environment. Because of
the impermeability of the surface, there is an increased risk of flooding as well as a reduction
in the groundwater recharge. Recently, there is rise inconsideration to promote utilizing of
porous concrete towards the environment and sustainable management. This concrete can be
a successful means in addressing a number of environmental issues and supporting sustainable
development. Despite of having a lower strength, the porous concrete with a higher porosity is
useful for many applications, such as permeable pavement, storm water quality management,
rain water harvesting and purification of water. In Australia, permeable pavement has been
utilized as a potential tool of Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) to manage natural water.
From 1994 the University of New South Wales (UNSW) started to research into permeable
concrete paving and more recently the University of South Australia is also involved in such

studies. The use of pervious concrete for the construction of secondary roads, parking lots and
drive ways is increasing in USA.
The adoption of pervious concrete in the construction industry has been started since early of
1950s. In Europe country, there are successful houses have been built by using pervious
concrete as the material of construction such as pervious concrete House. One of the reasons
that it chose to use for external wall of pervious concrete Houses due to its thermal insulation
behaviour.
There are a lot of researches and experiment have been conducted to study the characteristics
and the mechanical behaviour of no-fines concrete throughout the years. However, there are
still lacking information to test for no-fines concrete workability such as slump test. Therefore,
this study will give more direction of applications of no-fines concrete as an alternative
ecofriendly material in construction industry. There is also modification of pervious concrete
by introducing finer , but it only helps in increasing the compressive strength. The addition of
pozzolana materials such as silica fumes also help to increase the strength of bonding by
reducing its permeability of pervious concrete. For study of pervious concrete strength,
compressive strength is more concerned as concrete is strong in compression instead of tension.
The main reason of adding fine aggregates in concrete is to acts as filler to occupy the pores in
the concrete to minimize the movement of moisture or air in concrete to cause expansion and
pressure during bleeding. Thus, bonding of coarse aggregates together with cement paste in no-
fines concrete will be the main contribution to its strength. Further to the direction of no-fines
concrete strength, different mix proportion of pervious concrete used to check the most suitable
design mix that can achieve as high strength as possible.

3. LITERATURE REVIEW
1. Pervious concrete as a sustainable pavement material – Research
findings and future prospects: A state-of-the-art review
Anusha K. Chandrappa, Krishna Prapoorna Biligiri (2016)
The impervious pavement system which acts as heat storage media release the heat back to the
atmosphere during night times. Use of Supplementary cementious material and improving the
strength by providing minimum cement coat paste was discussed in this paper. The aggregate-
cement ratio has been 4:1 or 6:1 typically volume of pervious concrete is about 50-65 %, w/c
ratio was around 0.40 The federal highway points out that pervious concrete may be 15-20%
more expensive than traditional concrete.
2. A review of sustainable pervious concrete system: emphasis on

clogging, material characterization and environmental aspects
Avisheshith Singh, Prasanna Venkatesh Sampath, Krishna Prapoorna
Biligiri(2020)
Here the author discussed six aspects of pervious concrete Permeability, Mechanical,
performances, skid resistances, noise reduction and UHI mitigation. The total amount of energy
consumed during production and placement of concrete slabs is 738 MJ/ton, while greenhouse
gas emission to around 134 kg/ton. Use of Supplementary cementious material and improving
the strength by providing minimum cement coat paste was discussed in this paper. The pervious
concrete slab 350 mm X 350 mm X 150 mm prepared of (1:6) and the infiltration observed that
0.04 to 3.82 cm/s. But the 83 % of permeability was reduced in just 3 years so that remedial
measured are necessary.
3. A review of sustainable pervious concrete system: emphasis on

clogging, material characterization and environmental aspects
Rui Zhong , Zhen Leng , Chi-sun Poon(2020)
The paper reviews the state –of –the –art and state-of –the-practice research and application of
pervious concrete. Porosity is one of the properties determine the performance of the pervious
concrete. It had minimum of water permeability about 2-6 mm/s. To predict Hydraulic
conductivity. Few studies have been carried out quantifying the influence of pore tortuosity on
hydraulic conductivity of PC. By combining the Kozeny-Carman model and the modified

parallel effective conductivity model. Mechanical performances and durability of the PC

between 15 to 30% ranges from 7 to 25 MPa.
Current state of PC practise around the world
Sl no Countries Current state of practise
01 United states Currently full depth of pervious concrete application in parking

lots, pathways, in some cases, low-volume roads for storm
water control applications
02 Japan All pavements will be replaced with pervious systems
03 Europe A report said the PC with 19 % of porosity used
04 China CIC constructed in the pilot cities
4. Ahmed Ibrahim et al. (2014)
The correlation between porosity and relative density of no-fines concrete was observed by
Ahmed Ibrahim. The porosity in no-fines concrete samples deceased as the void content is
reduced by filling with cement regardless the water/cement ratio used in the experiment. Also,
porosity of no-fines concrete decreased when high cement content is introduced in the concrete
mixtures. The recorded void content in the sample is up to 25%. This is because the void within
the samples has been filled with hydrated cement. Without manipulating the size of aggregates
used in samples or aggregate/cement ratio, the permeability of no-fines concrete are still
depending on the void ratio and porosity within the microstructure. Within the range of relatives
density used in the experiment; the results showed porosity within no-fines generally decreased
as there is an increase in its density. The highest porosity recorded is 38% in the experiment.
Hence, the higher porosity also increased water permeability. Most of the researchers are
determine the porosity of no-fines concrete by using equation below
5. Study of properties and strength of no-fines concrete

Ikbal N. Gorgis et al. (2018)

made comparison for the density test results of the fresh and oven dry for all no-fines concrete
samples mixes with using concrete from demolition works as coarse aggregate. The result
showed that the fresh density produced higher density which early assumption of particular no-
fines concrete properties. It's also an early indication whether the samples can be achieved
certain strength like normal concrete. The fresh density achieved the highest density of
1950kg/m3 with aggregate/cement ratio of 5:1. Hence, the porous properties of no-fines
concrete, the dry density of concrete gave more concern as water occupied the spaces and pores
during mixing of concrete samples and it do effect on its strength as well. Therefore, density of
no-fines concrete can be varying in different mix proportion used during mixing. No-fines
concrete definitely has lower density compared to normal concrete due to its porous nature.
Water occupied in the concrete pores also one of the factors that cause reduction in the relative
density of no-fines concrete. It will leave the pore as an empty pore after the remained water is
completely dried up. Further to no-fines concrete compressive strength study, Ikbal N. Gorgis
et al, (2018) compiled the average compressive strength results at 7 and 28 days. The study
used substitution of coarse aggregates with remaining concrete from demolished works and
mix proportion of test sample control to 7:1:0.4. The result showed the optimum strength
achieved is 8.7 MPa. However, the properties of the aggregates used are not consistent which
might affect the accuracy of the results, but the result proved that the compressive strength
increased with time. Therefore, due to the permeability of no-fines concrete, higher
water/cement ratio allows higher amount of water penetrates into no-fines concrete through the
concrete pores which weaken the bonding strength. Comparing to normal concrete compressive
strength, even the highest strength achieved is not suitable to use as structural element for
buildings as it is considered low strength and it doesn't help in structural integrity nor capacity.
6. Study of properties and strength of no-fines concrete

Basher Alam et al. (2012).
With using different type of aggregate, Basher Alam conducted experiment using bloated slate
coarse aggregates to determine the effect of no-fines concrete properties. The mix proportion
used in his study varies in aggregate/cement ratio as well as water/cement ratio. Referring to
the result from Table below, the highest density recorded is from aggregate/cement ratio of 2.03
with water/cement ratio of 0.44%. The density is gradually decreasing with the increment of
aggregates/cement ratio together with water/cement ratio. This is because when there is
increment in water/cement ratio used, it will eventually increase the rate of water to occupy the
pores within the no-fines concrete samples

7. A experimental studies on no fines concrete

Abdul Malik et al. (2016).
conducted similar experiment to study the strength of no-fines concrete but with smaller range
of aggregate/cement ratio. There are control materials used in the study, which are Ordinary
Portland Cement (OPC) as cement, crushed coarse aggregate with angular shaped and its
specific gravity of 2.65 and tap water for mixing concrete. 9 samples of no-fines concrete with
aggregate/cement ratio of 6:1, 8:1 and 10:1 with water/cement ratio of 0.35, 0.4 and 0.45
respectively are conducted in 100mm cubic Mold. Based on the result obtained, the
compressive strength clearly increased as the water cement ratio increased. The highest
compressive strength up to 11.25 MPa is achieved with 6 to 1 aggregate cement ratio with 0.45
of water cement ratio. With lower aggregate cement ratio and high-water cement ratio showed
better compressive strength compared to others mix proportion. As aggregate cement paste
during mixing is well proportioned, hence it’s given more compacted cube. The compressive
strength of no-fines concrete achieved at 7 days are approximately 2/3 of strength achieved at
28 days. However, the similar mix proportion test sample can be tested to have better
comparison and increased accuracy of result by getting mean value of compression strength.
8. Study of some properties of no –fines concrete using local materials

Ghanim Hussein Oja & Dr. Ali Flayeh Hassan et al. (2015).
For study of no-fines concrete strength, compressive strength is more concerned as concrete is
strong in compression instead of tension. The main reason of adding fine aggregates in concrete
is to acts as filler to occupy the pores in the concrete to minimize the movement of moisture or
air in concrete to cause expansion and pressure during bleeding. Thus, bonding of coarse
aggregates together with cement paste in no-fines concrete will be the main contribution to its
strength. Further to the direction of no-fines concrete strength, different mix proportion of no-
fines concrete used to check the most suitable design mix that can achieve as high strength as
possible. There are a lot of researches and experiment have been conducted to study the
characteristics and the mechanical behaviour of no-fines concrete throughout the years.
However, there are still lacking information to test for no-fines concrete workability such as
slump test. Therefore, this study will give more direction of applications of no-fines concrete
as an alternative eco-friendly material in construction industry. Ghanim Hussein Qoja & Dr.
Ali Flayeh Hassan (2015) also highlighted that the grading of aggregate directly affects to the
concrete relative’s density. Similar aggregate/cement ratio as T.Abadjieva's study has been

conducted but with different range of water/cement ratio which is from 0.4% to 0.44%
respectively. The highest density recorded is 2015kg/m3 for aggregate/cement ratio of 6:1 with
water/cement ratio of 0.4%. Therefore, it indicated that the density is lower than normal
concrete density due to its porous properties. Ghanim Hussein Qoja & Dr. Ali Flayeh Hassan
(2015) also conducted experiment to determine the compressive strength of pervious concrete
at ages of 7 and 28 days. The studied aggregate/cement ratio is range from 6:1 to 10:1 with
water/cement ratio of 0.4 to 0.44 respectively.
9. Studies on Characterization of Pervious Concrete for Pavement

Applications
Maguesvari M. U. et al . (2013)
found that the void content increase the permeability of the pervious concrete and also it
increases regardless of aggregate size and the amount of fine aggregate. The coefficient of
permeability increases exponentially with void ratio. The results signify the importance of void
content present in aggregate and percentage of fine aggregate regardless of the size of
aggregate and cement content No-fines concrete is a type of special concrete by elimination of
fine aggregates in its design mix and made up from interconnected void network in its
microstructure. Without manipulating the size of aggregates used in samples or
aggregate/cement ratio, the permeability of no-fines concrete are still depending on the void
ratio and porosity within the microstructure. They noticed that as void content increases
compressive strength decreases. With the addition of percentage fine aggregate in the mix
increases Compressive strength. Compressive strength varies from 9.6 N/mm2 to 26.2 𝑁/𝑚𝑚2
irrespective of the size of aggregate and the influence of fine aggregate addition. Total void
present in aggregate varies from 28.13% to 40.91%. It follows the general trend. There is a
definite correlation between total void and compressive strength.
10.Study of properties and strength of no-fines concrete

Amjad A. Yasin et al.(2015)
investigated on no-fines concrete compressive strength at 28 days by controlling water/cement

ratio. The aggregate used in the experiment is fixed with range of 2.5 to 2.8 of its specific
gravity with low water absorption. 8 samples of no-fines concrete are conducted with two
different water/cement ratio in 150mm cubic mold. 4 samples for water/cement ratio of 0.4%
and remaining for water/cement ratio of 0.5%. Referring to the compressive strength results,
no-fines concrete samples 4 mix ratio with 12 to 1 aggregate/cement ratio gives the lowest

compressive strength which is as low as 0.82 MPa while sample 6 with mix proportion ratio
of 6 to 1 aggregate/cement ratio achieved the highest compressive strength which is 8.97 MPa
regardless the water/cement ratio. It indicated that the mix proportion can affect the
compressive strength directly. The higher volume of aggregates used, the lower the strength
achieved. This is because the fixed cement content cannot fully mix all of the aggregates,
resulting weak bonding between aggregate with cement and water. For sample 3 and sample 7
with similar aggregate/cement ratio, the strength of no-fines concretes clearly affected by the
water/cement ratio. However, further information of compressive strength development can be
studied if the experiment result of no-fines concrete compressive strength included strength
tested for 7 and 14 days instead of only captured for 28 days. The accuracy of result also can
be improved if the number of test samples each mix proportion increase to get mean value of
compression strength.

4. ADVANTAGES OF PERVIOUS CONCRETE:
Fig 02 Comparison of Previous concrete and Conventional concrete

1. Stormwater Management: Pervious concrete allows water to permeate through the surface,
reducing stormwater runoff. This aids in effective stormwater management, minimizing the risk
of flooding and erosion.
2. Groundwater Recharge: The permeability of pervious concrete facilitates groundwater

recharge by allowing rainwater to infiltrate the soil, replenishing aquifers and sustaining local
water resources.
3. Environmental Sustainability: The use of pervious concrete promotes sustainability by

reducing the heat island effect in urban areas and minimizing the environmental impact
associated with traditional impermeable pavements.

4. Improved Water Quality : Pervious concrete filters pollutants and contaminants as water
passes through, leading to improved water quality. This feature is especially beneficial for
protecting nearby water bodies from pollutants commonly found in stormwater runoff.
5. Reduced Runoff Velocity: The porous nature of the pavement slows down the runoff
velocity, preventing soil erosion and reducing the risk of flash flooding in urban areas.
6. Durable and Resilient: Pervious concrete, when designed and installed correctly, exhibits
durability and resilience comparable to traditional pavements, with the added advantage of
environmental benefits.
7. Lower Urban Heat Island Effect: Pervious concrete surfaces reflect less heat and absorb
less solar radiation than traditional pavements, contributing to a reduction in the urban heat
island effect.
8. Contributes to LEED Credits: The use of pervious concrete can contribute to Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification credits, reflecting a commitment to
sustainable building practices.
Disadvantages of Pervious Concrete:
1. Lower Structural Strength: Pervious concrete typically has lower compressive strength
compared to traditional concrete, which may limit its use in certain high-load applications.
2. Maintenance Challenges: Pervious concrete requires regular maintenance to ensure its

continued effectiveness. Accumulated debris, dirt, and pollutants can clog the pores, reducing
permeability and necessitating periodic cleaning.
3. Freeze-Thaw Durability: In regions with freeze-thaw cycles, the durability of pervious

concrete may be compromised. The trapped water within the pavement can expand during
freezing, leading to potential damage.

4. Limited Applicability in Certain Climates: Pervious concrete may not be suitable for regions
with heavy rainfall or where de-icing salts are commonly used, as these factors can impact its
performance and longevity.
5. Initial Cost: The initial cost of installing pervious concrete can be higher than that of
traditional pavements. However, this cost may be offset by long-term benefits and potential
savings in stormwater management infrastructure.
6. Skill-Dependent Installation: Successful installation of pervious concrete requires

specialized knowledge and skills. Inadequate installation can result in reduced permeability and
compromised performance.
7. Limited Aesthetic Options: Pervious concrete may have a limited range of aesthetic options
compared to traditional pavements. This may be a consideration in projects where aesthetics
are a significant factor.

4.1 Contribution of pervious concrete to sustainability and net zero carbon

emission
Fig 05:- showing A pervious concrete contribute sustainable growth of environment

Pervious concrete contributes to sustainability by incorporating recycled aggregates and
supplementary cementitious materials. The use of recycled materials reduces the demand for
virgin resources, lowering the overall carbon footprint associated with concrete production. For
example, by replacing a percentage of traditional cement with fly ash or slag, the embodied
carbon in the concrete is significantly reduced
1. Storm water management

Pervious concrete aids in sustainable stormwater management, reducing the need for extensive
and costly stormwater infrastructure. By allowing water to infiltrate the ground, it minimizes the
requirement for elaborate drainage systems and storage facilities. This not only conserves
resources but also decreases the environmental impact associated with the construction and
maintenance of traditional stormwater management structure
2. Urban heat island mitigation

Pervious concrete helps mitigate the urban heat island effect by reflecting less heat and
absorbing less solar radiation than traditional impermeable surfaces. In urban areas, this can
contribute to a more comfortable microclimate and reduce the energy demand for cooling,
aligning with sustainability goals. For instance, a pervious concrete parking lot can contribute
to cooler temperatures compared to a conventional asphalt lot.
3. Water conservation and ground water recharge
The permeable nature of pervious concrete facilitates groundwater recharge, aiding in water
conservation. Reduced reliance on potable water for landscape irrigation and other non-potable
uses contributes to sustainable water management practices. For example, in residential areas,
pervious concrete driveways can play a role in replenishing local aquifers and supporting
sustainable water resources.
4. Green building practises
Pervious concrete applications can contribute to earning points for Leadership in Energy and
Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Projects incorporating pervious concrete
demonstrate a commitment to green building practices and sustainability. An example includes
a commercial development achieving LEED certification by utilizing pervious concrete for
parking areas, meeting both environmental and construction standards.
5. Carbon sequestration and environmental performances
Pervious concrete, through the use of certain aggregates and binding materials, can contribute
to carbon sequestration. Some materials chemically absorb carbon dioxide during their life
cycle, providing an additional environmental benefit. This is exemplified in applications such
as sidewalks and pedestrian pathways in urban areas, where the environmental performance of
pervious concrete aids in achieving net-zero or even carbon-negative outcomes.
6. Life cycle analysis and long-term benefit analysis
Pervious concrete, when subjected to life-cycle analysis, often demonstrates long-term

environmental and economic benefits. While the initial installation cost may be higher, the
reduced need for maintenance, lower energy consumption for cooling, and decreased
stormwater management infrastructure requirements contribute to a more sustainable and
economically viable solution over the life of the pavement.

4.2 Characteristics of pervious concrete
1. Hydrological Characterization:
• Permeability: One of the key characteristics of pervious concrete is its high

permeability. It allows water to pass through the material, promoting efficient
stormwater management by reducing surface runoff. Permeability rates can be
adjusted based on design requirements and are typically measured in inches per hour
(in/hr) or millimetres per second (mm/s).
• Infiltration Capacity: Pervious concrete facilitates rapid water infiltration into the
underlying soil. This property helps prevent waterlogging and enhances groundwater
recharge, contributing to sustainable water resource management.
• Runoff Reduction: By decreasing surface runoff, pervious concrete minimizes the risk
of erosion and helps mitigate the impact of urbanization on natural hydrological
processes. This characteristic is crucial for maintaining the ecological balance of local
water systems.
2. Pore Properties:
• Macro-Porosity: Pervious concrete contains a network of interconnected macro-

pores, ranging from a few millimetres to centimetres in size. These large voids enable
water to flow through the material easily, enhancing its permeability.
• Micro-Porosity: In addition to macro-pores, pervious concrete possesses micro-

porosity at the microscopic level. This microstructure contributes to the material's
water-absorption capacity and overall porosity.
• Pore Size Distribution: The distribution of pore sizes in pervious concrete influences
its hydraulic properties. A well-controlled pore size distribution ensures optimal
permeability and water retention characteristics.

3. Sound Absorption:
• Acoustic Properties: Pervious concrete exhibits sound-absorbing properties, making

it a valuable material for noise reduction in urban environments. The porous structure
allows sound waves to penetrate the surface and be absorbed, reducing overall noise
pollution.
• Noise Reduction Coefficient (NRC): NRC quantifies the sound-absorbing capabilities

of a material. Pervious concrete typically has a favourable NRC, indicating its
effectiveness in attenuating noise levels in various applications, such as highways,
parking lots, and pedestrian areas.
• Application in Urban Planning: The sound-absorbing characteristics of pervious

concrete make it suitable for enhancing the acoustic environment in public spaces,
contributing to a more pleasant and sustainable urban landscape.
4. Air Quality Improvement:
Carbonation and Carbon Sequestration: Pervious concrete has the potential to contribute to
carbon sequestration through the process of carbonation. The material absorbs carbon dioxide
from the atmosphere, converting it into mineral forms and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Reduced Heat Island Effect: By reflecting less heat and absorbing less solar radiation
than traditional pavements, pervious concrete helps mitigate the urban heat island
effect. This, in turn, contributes to improved air quality and energy conservation in
urban areas.
• Particulate Matter Filtration: The porous structure of pervious concrete allows air to
circulate through the material, providing opportunities for the filtration of particulate
matter. This can contribute to cleaner air in urban environments, especially in areas
with high vehicular traffic.


5. CASE STUDIES
Sl Nu Title Description
01 Case Studies on the • The increased porosity being main characteristic of
Construction of Pervious pervious concrete varies in the range of 15- 35%
Concrete Pavements in IIT • In this study, six gradations were used, which
Kharagpur, India included three single sized and three graded
materials. In addition, three levels of water-to
cement ratio and cement-to-aggregate ratio were
used.
Property Minimu Maximum

m
Porosity % 12.21 37.61
Density kg/cum 1767.26 2277.19
Permeability cm/s 0.11 3.12
Compressive strength, MPa 5..66 26.95
Flexural strength, MPa 1.46 3.22
02 Construction of pervious • Permeability: All three concrete mixes exhibited

concrete pavement stretch, high permeability, allowing rainwater to percolate
Ahmedabad, India through the pavement at a rate of approximately 150
mm/hour.
• The results of this case study demonstrate that
pervious concrete is a viable and sustainable option
for pavement construction.
• Reduced stormwater runoff and improved drainage
• Mitigation of the urban heat island effect
• Replenishment of groundwater
• The increased porosity being main characteristic of
pervious concrete varies in the range of 15- 35%
• In this study, six gradations were used, which
included three single sized and three graded

materials. In addition, three levels of water-to

cement ratio and cement-to-aggregate ratio were
used.
03 Feasibility of Pervious • Pervious concrete pavement for low traffic volume

Concrete Pavement: A Case road was designed as per IRC SP 62: 2014. Slab with
Study of Karanjade Node, a thickness of 200mmwasdesigned and checked for
Panvel edge and corner stress.
• Trial mixtures with void contents ranging from 18.8
to 31.9% and densities from 1,890 to 2,034 kg/m3
gave satisfactory compression and flexural test
• Pervious concrete for rural road pavement was
studied as a case study. Cost comparison of normal
concrete of M20 grade and pervious concrete was
carried out. It was found that there was a
considerable saving in amount about 29 Rs / m3 or
193 Rs / m2 for construction of 1m x1m x 0.15m size
pavement.
Properties Conventional Pervious Concrete

Concrete
Void Ratio 3 % -5 % 15 % - 40%
Compressive 20 - 50 MPa 5 – 25 MPa

Strength
Density 2400 to 2500 1800 to 2100

(kg/m3)

5.1 Applications of Pervious Concrete:
1. Parking Lots and Driveways:
Pervious concrete is commonly used in parking lots and driveways to reduce stormwater
runoff, minimize the risk of flooding, and enhance groundwater recharge. This application
helps manage water efficiently while providing a durable and load-bearing surface for vehicles.
2. Sidewalks and Pathways:
Pervious concrete is an ideal material for sidewalks and pedestrian pathways. Its permeability
allows rainwater to infiltrate the ground, reducing puddles and water accumulation. This not
only enhances safety for pedestrians but also contributes to urban stormwater management.
3. Residential Streets:
In residential areas, pervious concrete can be applied for low-traffic streets to achieve
sustainable stormwater management. This application helps mitigate the environmental impact
of urbanization while providing a functional and aesthetically pleasing pavement surface.
4. Plazas and Public Spaces:
Pervious concrete is suitable for plazas and public spaces where sustainable urban design is
a priority. Its permeability contributes to a reduction in the urban heat island effect, and its
ability to manage stormwater makes it an environmentally conscious choice for open areas.
5. Sport Courts and Playgrounds:
Pervious concrete can be used in sport courts and playgrounds to create safe and permeable
surfaces. This application allows for efficient water drainage, reducing the risk of standing
water and creating a more comfortable and playable environment.
6. Bicycle Paths and Greenways:
Pervious concrete is well-suited for bicycle paths and greenways. Its permeable nature aids
in natural water filtration, contributing to the preservation of local ecosystems. The reduced
runoff also helps maintain the integrity of nearby water bodies.
7. Commercial and Industrial Areas:

In commercial and industrial areas with moderate traffic, pervious concrete can be applied for
parking lots and access roads. This not only provides a durable surface for vehicles but also
supports sustainable stormwater management practices.
8. Rain Gardens and Bioswales:
Pervious concrete can be integrated into rain gardens and bioswales, creating a seamless and
effective system for managing stormwater. These applications enhance water infiltration,
pollutant filtration, and contribute to the overall health of the surrounding environment.
9. Green Roofs and Sustainable Landscaping:
Pervious concrete can serve as a stable base for green roofs and sustainable landscaping
features. It provides a porous foundation, allowing for water to percolate through, supporting
vegetation growth and contributing to green building practices.
10. Emergency Vehicle Access Areas:
Pervious concrete is suitable for emergency vehicle access areas where a durable and
permeable surface is required. This application ensures quick and efficient access for
emergency services while managing stormwater runoff effectively.
11. Historic Preservation Projects:
Pervious concrete can be used in historic preservation projects where a combination of

modern functionality and environmental sensitivity is required. Its ability to balance practicality
with sustainable design makes it a suitable choice for preserving the integrity of historical sites.
12. LEED-Certified Projects:
Pervious concrete is often used in projects seeking Leadership in Energy and Environmental
Design (LEED) certification. Its contribution to sustainable water management and reduction
in the urban heat island effect align with LEED's criteria for environmentally conscious
construction.

5.2 Future of pervious concrete
1. Advanced Material Formulations:
• Nano-Material Integration: Future developments may involve incorporating

nanomaterials into pervious concrete formulations, enhancing mechanical strength,
durability, and fine-tuning pore structures for optimal performance.
• Self-Healing Properties: Researchers are exploring the integration of self-healing
mechanisms, such as microorganisms or encapsulated healing agents, to repair cracks
and enhance the long-term durability of pervious concrete.
2. Smart Technologies Integration:
• Sensor Networks: The integration of sensors within pervious concrete structures can
provide real-time data on infiltration rates, structural health, and environmental
conditions. This data can inform maintenance schedules, improve efficiency, and
contribute to the development of smart cities.
• IoT Applications: Internet of Things (IoT) technologies can be incorporated to enable
communication between pervious concrete surfaces and other urban systems. This
could lead to adaptive infrastructure that responds dynamically to changing
environmental conditions.
3. Climate-Resilient Design:
• Extreme Weather Adaptation: Future pervious concrete formulations may be

engineered to withstand extreme weather conditions, including intense rainfall,
freeze-thaw cycles, and high-temperature variations, ensuring resilience in the face of
a changing climate.
• Customizable Performance: Researchers are exploring ways to customize pervious
concrete mix designs based on regional climate patterns, allowing for optimized
performance in specific environmental contexts.
4. Enhanced Mechanical Properties:
• Higher Load-Bearing Capacities: Ongoing research aims to enhance the load-bearing

capacities of pervious concrete without compromising permeability, expanding its
applicability in areas with heavier traffic loads, such as roads and industrial facilities.

• Improved Flexural Strength: Innovations in reinforcing techniques and materials aim

to improve the flexural strength of pervious concrete, addressing one of the current
limitations in its structural applications.
5. Integration with Green Infrastructure:
• Vegetation Compatibility: Future pervious concrete designs may focus on

compatibility with vegetation, allowing for the integration of green elements within
pavement surfaces. This could contribute to urban biodiversity and aesthetics.
• Urban Agriculture Potential: Pervious concrete surfaces could be adapted to support
urban agriculture by providing a stable foundation for green roofs, vertical gardens,
or other forms of sustainable food production.
6. Circular Economy Principles:
• Waste Valorisation: Continued efforts in waste valorisation may lead to the

incorporation of more recycled and waste-derived materials in pervious concrete,
aligning with circular economy principles and reducing the environmental impact of
construction.
• End-of-Life Recycling: Researchers are exploring methods for the efficient recycling
of pervious concrete at the end of its service life, promoting a closed-loop system and
reducing the demand for virgin resources.
7. Global Adoption and Standards:
• International Standards As pervious concrete gains popularity globally, there is a

growing need for standardized testing methods and design guidelines. Future
developments may involve the establishment of international standards to ensure
consistent performance and quality.

5.3 COMPARSION OF PERVIOUS CONCRETE AND CONVENTION

CONCRETE
Sl No Feature Pervious Concrete Conventional Concrete
01 Cost per km ₹ 40-60 lakhs ₹ 30-40 lakhs
More complex mixing and placement, Easier to mix and place, readily available
02 Workability
requires specialized equipment. equipment.
Allows rainwater to infiltrate through pores,

Impermeable, leads to surface runoff and
03 Permeability reducing stormwater runoff (0.2 to 0.54
potential flooding.
cm/sec).
Requires regular cleaning to prevent clogging Lower maintenance needs, but

04 Maintenance
of pores. susceptible to cracking and potholes.
The pervious concrete ranges from 1 to 28 The conventional concrete ranges from
Mechanical
05 MPa and 1 to 3 compressive and flexural 20 to 60 MPa and 15 to 30 MPa strength
strength
strength respectively. respectively.
Noise Higher tire noise due to hard, smooth

05 Reduces tire noise due to porous surface.
reduction surface.
Urban heat Reduces heat island effect by promoting Contributes to heat island effect by
06
island effect stormwater infiltration and evaporation. absorbing and radiating heat.
The density ranges from 1631 kg/m3 to 2355 The density ranges from 2400 to 2800
08 Density
kg/m3. kg/m3.

6. CONCLUSION
• Pervious concrete is a promising material for pavement construction, offering a range

of environmental and performance benefits. Its ability to manage stormwater, mitigate
heat island effects, and replenish groundwater makes it a valuable tool for sustainable
urban development.
• Present technology is suitable for application on low volume roads like light traffic
loads, pavement, parking lots and paving in-front of the houses
• As awareness of the benefits of pervious concrete grows, its adoption is likely to

increase, contributing to greener and more resilient cities
• Pervious concrete is a promising material for pavement construction, offering a range

of environmental and performance benefits. Its ability to manage stormwater, mitigate
heat island effects, and replenish groundwater makes it a valuable tool for sustainable
urban development.
• Present technology is suitable for application on low volume roads like light traffic
loads, pavement, parking lots and paving in-front of the houses
• As awareness of the benefits of pervious concrete grows, its adoption is likely to

increase, contributing to greener and more resilient cities

7. REFFERENCE
• Elizondo-Martinez, E. J., Andres-Valeri, V. C., Jato-Espino, D., & Rodriguez-

Hernandez, J. (2020). Review of porous concrete as multifunctional and sustainable
pavement. Journal of Building Engineering, 27, 100967.
• Singh, A., Sampath, P. V., & Biligiri, K. P. (2020). A review of sustainable pervious
concrete systems: Emphasis on clogging, material characterization, and environmental
aspects. Construction and Building Materials, 261, 120491.
• Chandrappa, A. K., & Biligiri, K. P. (2016). Pervious concrete as a sustainable pavement

material–Research findings and future prospects: A state-of-the-art
review. Construction and building materials, 111, 262-274.
• Zhong, R., Leng, Z., & Poon, C. S. (2018). Research and application of pervious
concrete as a sustainable pavement material: A state-of-the-art and state-of-the-practice
review. Construction and Building Materials, 183, 544-553.
• Sun, R., Wang, D., Cao, H., Wang, Y., Lu, Z., & Xia, J. (2021). Ecological pervious
concrete in revetment and restoration of coastal Wetlands: A review. Construction and
Building Materials, 303, 124590.
• Singh, A., Sampath, P. V., & Biligiri, K. P. (2020). A review of sustainable pervious
concrete systems: Emphasis on clogging, material characterization, and environmental
aspects. Construction and Building Materials, 261, 120491.
• https://www.irjet.net/archives/V4/i6/IRJET-V4I6648.pdf
• https://www.scimagojr.com/journalsearch.php?q=20426&tip=sid&clean=0

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A multifunctional and sustainable pavement Using pervious concrete 2023-24

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 1

Fig 01 Image showing pervious concrete pavement

Sustainable development of transportation infrastructure in the urban environment require a

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 2

Fig 02 The concrete impact on environmental

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 3

• From these, Carbon dioxide emissions: Cement production is responsible for an

• It creates following problem

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 4

• Greenhouse gas emissions

• Air and water pollution

• Resource depletion: Deforestation.

2.1 What is porous concrete?

Fig 04: - A image showing pervious concrete pavement

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 5

Materials Used in Pervious Concrete and Their Specifications:

Type: Ordinary Portland Cement (OPC) is commonly used.

Specification: ASTM C150 or equivalent standards.

Type Generally, angular crushed stones or gravel.

Size: Typically, 3/8 to 3/4 inch.

Specification: ASTM C33 or local equivalent.

Type: Natural or manufactured sand.

Size: Finer than traditional concrete aggregates.

Specification:ASTM C33 or local equivalent.

Quality: Clean and free from impurities.

Quantity: Typically, the water-cement ratio is kept low to maintain porosity.

Specification: Adheres to ASTM C94 standards.

Purpose: Enhances freeze-thaw resistance.

Specification:ASTM C260 or equivalent.

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 6

Set Retarders or Accelerators:

Purpose: Adjusts setting time based on project needs.

Specification: ASTM C494 or local equivalent.

Type: Synthetic or natural fibres.

Purpose: Enhances tensile strength and reduces cracking.

Specification: ASTM C1116 or local equivalent.

6. Chemical Stabilizers (Optional):

Specification: Follow manufacturer recommendations.

Type: Crushed recycled concrete or reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP).

Percentage: Varies, but can be up to 30% or more.

Specification: ASTM C33 or local equivalent for aggregates.

Supplementary Cementitious Materials (SCMs):

Types Fly ash, silica fume, or slag.

Percentage: Typically, up to 30% replacement of cement.

Purpose: To further enhance permeability.

Types: Shredded tire particles, expanded glass beads, or lightweight aggregates.

Percentage: Varies based on project specifications.

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 7

2.2 Mixing of pervious concrete

• Characterization of physical properties

PC is an open/gap graded pavement material consisting of a large number of interconnected

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 8

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 9

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 10

2. A review of sustainable pervious concrete system: emphasis on

3. A review of sustainable pervious concrete system: emphasis on

BE CIVIL ENGINEERING SIT, TUMKUR PAGE NO 11

parallel effective conductivity model. Mechanical performances and durability of the PC

Current state of PC practise around the world

Sl no Countries Current state of practise

01 United states Currently full depth of pervious concrete application in parking

02 Japan All pavements will be replaced with pervious systems