The Effect of Tree Shade and Snowpack Cover on Pavement Surface Temperature

Abstract

The effects of tree shade on the surface and internal temperature of pavement structures can be significant throughout the year. While much work has been done in researching the influence of tree cover on localized urban heating during hot summer months, less effort has been put towards the research of the effects of tree shade on pavement heat transfer during cold weather. A recent road project in Minnesota has resulted in increased interest in the balance of sun exposure andminimum pavement surface temperatures for winter road maintenance. This thesis provides an extensive literature review on tree cover and methods of calculating shade, winter maintenance practices, principles of heat transfer for snowpack systems, and the urban heat island effect. Then, a 1D heat transfer model, combining snowpack systems and pavement structures, is developed and presented, and a sensitivity analysis is performed on several model parameters. Finally, recommendations are made for future work, including field measurements at the project site, and implementation of the model for consideration in selective tree removal.