Optimised design and engineering application of fog seal based on multi-interfacial strength

The risk of Foreign Object Debris (FOD) from airport asphalt pavement spalling can be mitigated and pavement durability enhanced through fog seal application. This study first examined the influence of sand-binder ratio and spraying amount on interfacial adhesion using a central composite design, establishing predictive models to characterize their effects. Based on these results, an optimal design method for sand fog seal composition was proposed. Field validation on airport pavement was then performed to assess operational performance and construction quality. The findings revealed a strong interaction between sand-binder ratio and spraying amount: interfacial adhesion increased steadily with higher values of both factors but declined beyond acritical level. Optimal maintenance outcomes, including improved adhesion, reduced material consumption, and shorter construction time, were achieved when the sand-binder ratio and spraying amount were controlled within the ranges of 0.36–0.41 and 0.53–0.56 kg/m2, respectively.