Application of Advance Pavement Technology for Airfield, Field Experience at Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KLIA)

Abstract

The basic requirement for civil engineering materials construction usage is to use and optimise readily available materials nearest to the work site. Dependency on imported technology can sometimes limit the application of good engineering materials. Working from first engineering principles supported by research is a productive method to use non-standard materials confidently under known local environment. The pavement works at the KLIA underwent thorough studies working from basic principles. These principles are fully deployed during planning, design and construction in line with the available materials. Advanced technology was adopted for the design and construction while new materials were introduced for construction. This paper describes the historical and technical development of the pavement studies under local conditions, design and construction at KLIA. The pavement used stabilize meta-sandstone base as a structural bearing layer. The surfacing layers comprises of the bituminous crack relief layer (CRL) overlaid by polymer-modified asphalt (PMA). All these layers were newly introduced and were applied for the first time in large quantities in Malaysia. After five years the technology used had shown the expected performance even though the loading condition increased. The incorporation of a pavement management system in the monitoring exercise is also described. Valuable lessons learned from the starting point of investment up to maintenance management stage is described to guide investors on optimum use of pavement technology to benefit all stakeholders.