Concrete pavement crack treatment methods prioritize durability, cost-effectiveness, and environmental compatibility. The most widely used approaches include crack injection, sealant application, and hot mix repair. Crack injection involves filling voids with polyurethane, epoxy, or rubber-based materials to prevent water infiltration and structural degradation. Sealant application applies bituminous or acrylic-based sealants to surface cracks to reduce oxidation and reflectivity. Hot mix repair replaces cracked sections with new concrete or asphalt mixtures for severe damage.

Crack injection is the most effective method for structural cracks, with polyurethane being the preferred material due to its flexibility and resistance to moisture. A 2020 Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) study found that crack injection extends pavement lifespan by 5–10 years when applied to cracks wider than 0.25 inches (6.35 mm). The technique’s success hinges on proper cleaning and injection pressure, which must exceed 100 psi to ensure complete filling. Sealant application, while less durable, costs 30–50% less than injection, making it suitable for non-structural cracks. However, FHWA data shows sealants degrade 40% faster in high-temperature regions, necessitating annual reapplication. Hot mix repair, though expensive, offers long-term solutions for severe damage. A 2018 ASCE report noted that full-depth repairs reduce stress concentrations by 30–50%, compared to partial fixes. However, delays in repair increase costs by 15–20%, emphasizing the need for proactive maintenance. Collectively, these methods balance performance, cost, and environmental impact, with crack injection being the gold standard for structural integrity.