Proceedings on Engineering Sciences | 2026
Authors: Vasquez-Monteros J.; Guarderas-Ludeña X.
DOI: 10.24874/PES08.01B.023
Journal: Proceedings on Engineering Sciences
Year: 2026
Publisher: Faculty of Engineering, University of Kragujevac
Document Type: Article
Open Access: All Open Access; Gold Open Access; Green Open Access
Cited by: 0
This study analyzes the noise generated by tire-pavement interaction on the Loja-Malacatos road, a 34 km mountainous route in southern Ecuador, where numerous houses are located just meters from the roadway. The Statistical Pass-By (SPB) method, following ISO 11819-1 standards, was applied to measure the impact of traffic on residents' quality of life. The pavement consists of a dense-graded asphalt mix (Tmax 12.5 mm) with AC-20 binder and an asphalt content of 6.61%. Noise measurements ranged from 63.3 dB to 68.2 dB, exceeding both the World Health Organization's recommended limit for residential areas (55 dB during daytime) and the Federal Highway Administration's (FHWA) mitigation threshold of 67 dB(A) for pass-by events near residential zones. In addition to confirming the direct relationship between vehicle speed and increased noise levels, it was found that trucks significantly contribute to noise pollution as they pass close to homes. This study is part of a broader program that will assess the health of the exposed population and develop mitigation measures, such as redesigning house facades to reduce interior noise. The findings highlight the urgent need to adopt sustainable road infrastructure approaches and urban planning initiatives that prioritize the well-being of communities affected by noise pollution. © 2026 Published by Faculty of Engineeringg.
Noise pollution; Pavement; Residential impact; Statistical Pass-By method; Tire-pavement noise