Analysis of Structural Vulnerability Through the Scanning of Road Pavements: Overview and Perspectives

For ensuring the long-term durability of infrastructure and public safety, it is necessary to ensure the structural integrity of road pavements, especially in vulnerable areas such as bridge joints. To diagnose issues in these key areas, this research explores new non-destructive evaluation (NDE) methods. Engineers can now detect hidden underlying problems (such as moisture buildup or poor compaction) and surface flaws (such as cracks and rutting) by coupling laser scanning with ground-penetrating radar (GPR). Real-world case studies show how surface deformations often relate to deeper abnormalities, illustrating that repairs must treat the causes of damage beneath the surface rather than simply superficial ones. For instance, laser scans pinpointed direct surface repairs instantly, whereas GPR evidence along high-traffic roads showed water retention in embankments. The research also considers how moisture and temperature changes damage expansion joints, which eventually makes road roughness more complex. With millimeter-level precision in real-time, advanced devices such as the Laser Crack Measurement System (LCMS) and LiDAR mounted on vehicles further revolutionize inspections. In one case, LCMS was 98% accurate and reduced inspection time and cost by 75% and 40%, respectively. Besides fulfilling international standards, these combined methods pave the way for more intelligent, proactive maintenance, which ensures safer roads and more extended infrastructure lifespan.