Des Moines, IA
PO Box 21009
office: 515.285.4649
fax: 515.285.0471
   
 
Fresh Pavement
Fresh pavement is layed.

Despite the indestructable appearance, it is immediately vulnerable to its environment.
Oxidation

As pavement ages, the effects of oxidation, traffic and chemical reactions with petroleum break down the binder.

Cracks appear as the pavement becomes brittle.

Crack Expansion

Water works its way into the cracks, buckling the pavement during freeze and thaw cycles.

Deep fissures begin to appear.
Failure

The pavement continues to erode and fails.

Potholes form and speed further failures.