Development of Asphalt Heat Sensors in Tropical Regions for Enhanced Road Safety of Drivers

This study explores the development and implementation of asphalt heat sensors on urban roads in Indonesia, aimed at enhancing driver safety in tropical regions. High temperatures in tropical climates can cause asphalt to soften, potentially leading to road damage and hazardous driving conditions. To address this issue, we designed and tested a prototype heat sensor system that monitors asphalt surface temperatures in real-time. The experiment was conducted on selected urban roads in major cities across Indonesia, where tropical weather patterns present unique challenges to road maintenance and safety. The sensors were installed at various points and connected to a central monitoring system, providing instant data on asphalt temperature fluctuations. Findings indicate that roads with real-time heat monitoring can offer early warnings of potential heat-related damages, such as asphalt softening and rutting, which can compromise vehicle handling and increase accident risks. By implementing this technology, we aim to provide local governments and road management authorities with a proactive tool to mitigate heat-related road hazards, ultimately improving the safety and durability of urban roads in tropical environments.