FURI | Spring 2023

Potential of Permeable Pavements to Manage Stormwater Runoff in Cities

The increase in impervious surfaces in urban areas leads to more flooding and groundwater issues. Permeable pavement systems (PPS) are considered one of the solutions to manage stormwater runoff volumes and help increase groundwater infiltration. As a result, these can also reduce evaporation and urban heat island mitigation. Hydraulic design and characterization of permeability characteristics of PPS are among the key design steps and variables. The focus of this research will evaluate the permeability characteristics of innovative pavement materials and layers that can be used in urban areas to address stormwater management. The physical properties and hydraulic performance of surface and base layers that can be used in the construction of permeable pavement systems will be investigated. A discrete element simulation tool will be used to evaluate the characteristics of permeable layers.