What type of cracking is characterized by a series of interconnecting or interlaced cracks in asphalt concrete?

Alligator cracking, also known as fatigue cracking, is characterized by a series of interconnected cracks that form a pattern resembling the skin of an alligator. This type of cracking typically occurs under repeated traffic loading, often indicating that the asphalt pavements have become structurally inadequate due to fatigue.

The formation of these cracks is mainly due to the combination of excess load, poor drainage, and inadequate pavement structure, which leads to the bending and flexing of the asphalt under traffic loads. Over time, as the structural integrity diminishes, these cracks grow and connect, creating the distinct interlaced pattern characteristic of alligator cracking.

Understanding this aspect of alligator cracking is crucial for civil engineers, as it indicates a need for maintenance or rehabilitation of the pavement structure to prevent further deterioration and potential safety hazards on roadways.