What does "pavement design" entail?

Pavement design is a critical process in civil engineering that involves determining the appropriate thickness and types of materials suitable for constructing a pavement. This process takes into account various factors, such as the expected load-bearing requirements, environmental conditions, and traffic patterns. By assessing these elements, engineers can ensure that the pavement will be durable and functional for its intended usage.

Selecting the right thickness is essential because it affects the pavement's longevity and performance under traffic loads. Choosing the correct materials, such as asphalt or concrete, is equally important as different materials possess distinct properties that can influence maintenance costs, longevity, and overall performance in various weather conditions.

The other options, while related to the broader field of civil engineering, do not accurately define pavement design. Decorative material selection focuses on aesthetics rather than structural integrity. Estimating labor costs pertains to budgeting and project management rather than the technical aspects of pavement structure. Mapping out drainage systems is a separate aspect of civil engineering that deals with managing water runoff and preventing pavement damage but does not specifically relate to the design of the pavement itself. Therefore, determining pavement thickness and material types is the core element of pavement design.