Author(s): Ahmad Firdaus Rahman and Nur Aisyah Khalid

Abstract: Low-Strength Controlled Materials (LSM), commonly known as flowable fill, have emerged as a practical alternative to conventional granular backfills for temporary urban road repairs due to their self-compacting nature and controlled strength development. In rapidly urbanizing cities, frequent utility excavations and emergency maintenance activities lead to repeated pavement cuts that compromise ride quality, safety, and long-term pavement performance. This conceptual research examines the applicability of LSM for temporary road restoration, focusing on material characteristics, construction advantages, and performance expectations in urban contexts. The research synthesizes findings from existing engineering literature to outline how LSM can reduce construction time, improve trench stability, and minimize post-repair settlement compared with traditional materials. Emphasis is placed on controlled low compressive strength, which allows future excavation while providing adequate early-age load-bearing capacity for traffic reopening. The paper also discusses mix design considerations, including cement content, supplementary cementitious materials, and flowability requirements, that influence setting time and removability. Environmental and economic implications are reviewed, highlighting the potential use of industrial by-products and the reduction of lifecycle maintenance costs. By consolidating conceptual insights rather than experimental data, the research aims to support informed decision-making by municipal engineers and urban infrastructure planners. The findings suggest that LSM offers a balanced solution for temporary road repairs by combining constructability, performance reliability, and adaptability to diverse urban conditions, thereby contributing to more resilient and efficient urban transportation systems. Such an approach aligns with current trends in sustainable urban infrastructure management, where rapid serviceability restoration and reduced disruption are critical planning objectives for densely populated environments. The conceptual framing provided here establishes a foundation for future empirical studies and standardized guidelines tailored to local construction practices and regulatory requirements in temporary pavement rehabilitation programs across developing and developed metropolitan regions worldwide under varying traffic demands and climatic conditions globally relevant.

DOI: 10.22271/27078361.2026.v7.i1a.89

Pages: 29-33 | Views: 21 | Downloads: 9

Download Full Article: Click Here