WET FRICTION-TIRE AND ROAD

The paper examines the factors which affect wet road friction, a limiting parameter in vehicle braking performance. With increasing vehicle speed the need for adequate drainage in the tyre and road surface becomes more important. The road surface can be the most effective in providing improved drainage and grip. Tyre tread materials also influence wet road skid resistance and contribute to braking treaction and vehicle handling. Adequate levels of wet road skid resistance are provided by the correct properties at the tyre interface. Although road surface wearing courses provide the required properties when newly laid, regular monitoring of skid resistance and texture depth is needed to establish when routine maintenance is required. /TRRL/