What type of distress is commonly measured in rigid pavement assessments?

• A. Raveling
• B. Punchouts
• C. Thermal cracks
• D. Bumps

Answer: (B)

In rigid pavement assessments, punchouts are a significant type of distress commonly measured. Punchouts are structural failures that occur in concrete pavements, typically where the slab has experienced excessive stress due to loads or environmental conditions. This distress is characterized by localized areas of failure where a portion of the slab has dropped or broken out, often leading to depressions that can affect the performance and ride quality of the pavement.

When assessing rigid pavements, it is essential to identify and evaluate punchouts, as they can lead to further deterioration if not addressed. The presence of punchouts indicates that the pavement may not be performing as intended, potentially requiring repairs or rehabilitation measures to restore its integrity and serviceability.

Other types of distresses, such as raveling, thermal cracks, and bumps, may be associated more with flexible pavement or other pavement types. Raveling typically affects asphalt surface layers, while thermal cracks are more prevalent in both rigid and flexible pavements but are not as distinctive as punchouts in rigid contexts. Bumps usually refer to surface irregularities that can occur in both rigid and flexible pavements, but they might not be specifically indicative of structural failure like punchouts are. Therefore, punchouts are particularly critical in rigid pavement assessments as they directly