Review of Pavement Performance Prediction Models

Road networks and in particular their Pavements are the fundamental components of a transportation infrastructure. Pavements need continuous maintenance. Allocation of sufficient funds for maintenance of pavements is an important process of pavement management systems. Importance of a modern and efficient pavement management system is evident, specially, for countries, where most transfers are done through road transportation networks.
Capability of estimating future pavement performance based on existing condition and presenting preventive operations are most important criterion of an efficient pavement management system. There is always an optimal time for M&R operations. Distresses progression rate and M&R costs will be increased, in case of no action at this optimal time. Pavement performance prediction models are the best tool for determination of this time.
In this paper, pavement performance prediction models will be introduced and compared with each other. Their exact comparison is discussed, by investigation models prediction accuracy, efficiency, calibration criteria and database and features needed.