This research investigated tire-pavement noise on various types of pavements across North Carolina by using On-Board Sound Intensity (OBSI) method. A thorough literature review was conducted. OBSI testing equipment with sound intensity measuring process was established at East Carolina University. The OBSI equipment is an important tool for investigating tire-pavement noise and performing traffic noise research in a standard manner so that the data can be shared and compared with other agencies. Sixty one highway sites and 153 test sections around 30 counties for nine types of pavements were investigated.
The data has been proved to be valid and can be used in the FHWA OBSI database or presented to the public. The results indicate that relatively quieter pavements have been used in North Carolina. In the meantime, future work is needed to improve pavement noise levels based on the findings from this project. The OBSI data collected will provide valuable information in future research for quieter pavement development and traffic noise management.
