Micro Surfacing Research

PennDOT performed a literature review, survey of other states, and a cost benefit analysis of multiple thin surface treatments, and finds that the equivalent annual cost of micro surfacing is 44% lower than that of thin overlay and can provide 6-8 years of service life when applied at optimal times. PennDOT also recommends the consideration of expanded use of micro surfacing, from both a geographical and traffic level point of view.

Micro surfacing is an effective surface treatment to prolong the life span of paved roads by preserving or improving the condition of paved roads. Whether used as a preventative treatment, corrective treatment, or holding strategy, micro surfacing lowers pavement life-cycle costs. 

Micro surfacing can be expected to provide an average service life of 7 years if the underlying road is in good condition.

Micro surfacing provides good friction characteristics for up to nine years of service.

Micro surfacing is a pavement preservation and maintenance tool with very few technical or operational limitations.

As part of the NCAT-MnROAD Pavement Preservation Group (PG) Study, six micro surfacing test sections were placed on Lee County Road 159, a low traffic volume road located in Auburn, Alabama. NCAT found the sections treated with micro surfacing show improved performance compared to the control sections and have been effective in extending pavement life.

The use of micro surfacing results in 54% less energy usage, 35% less raw material usage, 44% less green house gas release, and a 28% reduction in life cycle cost compared to a traditional 2 inch mill and fill treatment.