Review From Multiple Perspectives for the State of the Practice on the Use of Recycled Asphalt Materials and Recycling Agents in Asphalt Concrete Surface Mixtures

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to provide information from multiple perspectives on the current state of the practice with regard to using recycled materials and recycling agents (RAs) in asphalt concrete mixtures. This information was collected through a survey of U.S. transportation agencies and RA suppliers combined with a search of RA-related specifications and pilot projects previously constructed. Moreover, a case study describing the Virginia Department of Transportation’s experience with RAs provides a tangible example of how at least one agency is approaching the potential implementation of these technologies. This practice review was achieved by documenting the experience, lessons learned, and best practices of multiple asphalt experienced contractors and asphalt binder suppliers in the Virginia area. This paper follows a similar survey conducted in 2014 as part of NCHRP 09-58 and provides a second look at the use of RAs across North America. Not all state departments of transportation have experience with using RAs. Factors preventing the use of RAs included specification limitations, lack of expertise in processing recycled materials, supporting data, and negative prior experiences. Developing a performance-based testing framework is mandatory for the successful use of RAs. In general, good and frequent communication with the RA supplier is critical and necessary during the planning stages, the production of mixtures, and the continuous quality control by the supplier to resolve issues when they arise. Finally, a strong quality control and quality assurance-testing program should be implemented to ensure that materials meet the properties needed to produce a good-performing mixture.