Biomimicry and Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements (“PICP”) …a ‘natural’ approach Rick Crooks Mutual Materials Company www.mutualmaterials.com Summer Teachers Institute: June 24, 2015 Thurston Conservation District
Biomimicry and Permeable Interlocking
Concrete Pavements (“PICP”)
…a ‘natural’ approach
Rick Crooks Mutual Materials Company www.mutualmaterials.com
Summer Teachers Institute: June 24, 2015
Thurston Conservation District
Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement
An innovative, sustainable pavement that functions both as a durable traffic surface
and a stormwater infiltration or
detention system
Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavements
Differ from standard interlocking concrete pavements:
• They have the same material characteristics (high strength, durable finish), but…
• The system of underlying base aggregates and paver drainage features allow for infiltration of stormwater runoff…
• This decreases negative impacts on our environment and lets our paved surfaces act as a stormwater infiltration or detention system
PICP System Benefits • Increased groundwater recharge • Contaminants are filtered and reduced • Peak flows and volumes are lowered,
reducing downstream flow and erosion • Runoff temperatures are lowered • Visually attractive pavement • Ability to reinstate after repairs • Maintainable - clogged openings can be
cleaned • Immediately serviceable
PICP Components • “Permeable” Pavers
– Manufactured to the same specification as “standard” pavers
– But, includes “drainage features” • Wide joints • Drainage holes
PICP Components
• Free-draining aggregates – “Clean, crushed rock” aggregates:
• Jointing material and bedding course – “ASTM No. 8” aggregate, (1/4” to 3/8”)
• Base material – “ASTM No. 57 “ aggregate, (3/4” to 1-1/4”)
• Subbase material – “ASTM No. 2 “ aggregate, (2” to 3”)
Sustainable Development
“….development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
(1987 UN World Commission on Environment and Development)