Chapter 3

Interpretation of Data

Highway failure is a critical issue that affects the safety and efficiency of transportation systems.

Understanding the causes and consequences of highway failure is essential for designing and maintaining

effective road networks. Highway failure can be caused by various factors, including structural deficiencies,

inadequate maintenance, and environmental factors. Poor design and construction can lead to premature

failure of highways. Inadequate drainage systems can cause water accumulation and erosion on highways.

Overloading and heavy truck can lead to wear and tear on highway infrastructure. Weather conditions, such

as extreme temperatures, flooding, and earthquakes, can also cause highway failure. The Anilao Road is

suffering the road failure or types of cracking because of the passing of heavy trucks, temperature and the

climate change that affect the road pavement. This type of problem causes accidents by passing in this

road. This types problem is very dangerous and is monitored by the Barangay. Studying highway failures

helps identify the causes of accidents, which can lead to improved safety measures. Understanding

highway failures can help reduce traffic congestion and improve overall traffic flow. Highway failures can

result in significant economic losses, so studying them helps minimize costs. Anilao Road Pavement is

created at the Year 2018 but shows the early signs of Road Failures in the early year of 2021. When

conducting a survey, our data shows that the data analysis reveals that the frequency and severity of

failures are higher during peak travel hours (7-9 am and 4-6 pm). The majority of failures occur on sections

of the road with high traffic volume and speed. The data suggests that the road's drainage system is

inadequate, leading to water accumulation and erosion. Inspections conducted by the local government

have identified areas of poor drainage and water accumulation. The data reveals that the road's subgrade

is also a contributing factor, with some areas showing signs of settlement and erosion. Soil samples taken

from the affected areas have revealed poor soil quality and instability. This data reveals that the local road
has been experiencing a significant increase in highway failure over the past year. According to the records,

the road has failed a total of 15 times in the past 12 months. The most common type of failure is pothole

damage, accounting for 8 out of the 15 incidents. Weather conditions, such as heavy rainfall and freezing

temperatures, are believed to be contributing factors to the pothole formation. The data suggests that the

road's surface material is also a contributing factor, with asphalt being more prone to pothole formation than

concrete. In addition to potholes, other types of highway failure include Slippage, Longitudinal Cracking and

Edge Cracking.

Types of Cracking

1. Slippage

Slippage cracks are tear-like tears in asphalt surfaces where new material has slipped over the underlying

course due to a lack of bonding between layers.

Possible Cause

The primary cause of slippage cracking is the uneven settlement of the soil beneath the foundation, which

can be due to a variety of factors such as soil compaction, erosion, or poor drainage. As the soil settles, it

can cause the foundation to shift and crack, leading to structural damage and potential collapse. Slippage
cracking can also be caused by external factors such as earthquakes, soil liquefaction, or weather-related

events.

Possible Effects

If left untreated, slippage cracking can lead to significant structural damage, including cracks in walls,

floors, and ceilings, as well as compromised foundation integrity. In extreme cases, slippage cracking can

even result in the collapse of the entire structure, putting lives and property at risk.

2. Longitudinal Cracking

Longitudinal cracks parallel to pavement centerline, caused by poorly constructed joints, asphalt layer

shrinkage, underlying layer reflections, and improper paver operation. These cracks are not load-related.

Possible Cause

This occurs when asphalt pavements are subjected to heavy traffic, poor drainage, and inadequate

maintenance. As a result, the pavement surface begins to crack and debond, leading to a reduction in its

structural integrity and service life.

Possible Effects
The effects of longitudinal cracking can be severe, including increased vehicle noise and vibrations,

reduced skid resistance, and compromised waterproofing. If left untreated, longitudinal cracking can lead to

further damage, such as potholes, alligator cracking, and even complete pavement failure. Additionally, the

formation of longitudinal cracks can also cause water to infiltrate the pavement structure, leading to freeze-

thaw damage and further deterioration. Furthermore, the cracked pavement can become a source of

tripping hazards, especially for pedestrians and cyclists. The consequences of longitudinal cracking can

also have significant economic implications, including increased maintenance costs, reduced road safety,

and potential damage to vehicles. To mitigate these effects, it is essential to identify and address

longitudinal cracking in asphalt pavements as soon as possible through regular inspections and repairs.

3. Edge Cracking

Poor drainage conditions, lack of pavement edge support, heavy vegetation, and heavy traffic can cause

edge cracking, causing weakened underlying base materials and settlement.

Possible Cause

The primary cause of edge cracking is excessive force or stress applied to the glass, such as sudden

impact or extreme temperatures. Other factors that can contribute to edge cracking include thermal stress,
chemical corrosion, and mechanical wear. The use of low-quality or damaged glass can also lead to edge

cracking. Improper installation or handling of glass can also cause edge cracking.

Possible Effects

Edge cracking can lead to a significant reduction in the structural integrity of the glass. As the crack grows,

it can compromise the safety and security of the glass. Edge cracking can also allow water and air to enter

the gap, leading to corrosion and damage. In extreme cases, edge cracking can cause the glass to shatter

or break, leading to injury or damage. The aesthetic appeal of the glass is also affected by edge cracking,

as it can create unsightly cracks and chips. Edge cracking can also reduce the energy efficiency of the

glass by allowing heat to escape and cold air to enter. In buildings, edge cracking can compromise the

overall structure and integrity of the building envelope. Edge cracking can also lead to costly repairs and

replacements, especially if left unchecked. In some cases, edge cracking can cause the glass to become

brittle and prone to further breakage. Edge cracking can also affect the acoustic performance of the glass,

allowing sound to escape or enter. In addition, edge cracking can compromise the maintenance and

cleaning of the glass, as debris and dirt can accumulate in the cracks.

Regular inspections and maintenance are essential for detecting highway failures early. Advanced

technologies, such as sensors and drones, can be used to monitor highway conditions. Preventive

measures, such as sealing cracks and repairing potholes, can prevent highway failure. Designing highways

with safety features, such as crash barriers and median barriers, can reduce the risk of accidents.

Repairing highways quickly is essential to minimize the impact of failures on traffic flow. Rehabilitation

involves repairing or replacing damaged or deteriorated sections of highway. Advanced repair techniques,
such as concrete patching and asphalt overlaying, can be used to repair highways. Rebuilding highways

with new materials and designs can be a more effective long-term solution.