Evaluating the effect of rejuvenators on the degree of blending and performance of high RAP, RAS, and RAP/RAS mixtures

Abstract

The objective of this study was to examine if asphalt rejuvenators can offset the stiffness attributed by the hardened binder from reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and reclaimed asphalt shingles (RAS) in mixtures that incorporate high RAP and RAS content without adverse impact on the performance of the mixtures. Also, to assess, if rejuvenators can help the hardened binder from the RAP/RAS comingle with the virgin binder. Overall, the results showed that asphalt rejuvenators can mitigate the stiffness of the resultant binder. The cracking characteristics of the mixture improved by the addition of the rejuvenators, however, the rutting and moisture susceptibility were adversely impacted at the dosage and the testing conditions used. Also, the tests results at 4°C generally showed that there was blending of the rejuvenated and virgin binder, however, no conclusion could be made at the higher temperatures.