Report of RILEM TC 308 PAR: Cold recycling of reclaimed asphalt with bituminous binders – A critical comparison of practices in the countries involved in the TC 308-PAR TG1, Part II

Abstract

The RILEM technical committee on Performance-based Asphalt Recycling TC 308-PAR is dedicated to advancing research, promoting knowledge exchange, and disseminating information related to asphalt material recycling. Within this framework, Task Group 1 (TG1) “Performance-based Evaluation of Cold Recycled Asphalt Mixtures” concentrates on aligning laboratory testing methods with the real-world performance of cold recycled asphalt mixtures. To this end, TG1 members collaborated to share the various cold recycling practices adopted in their respective countries. This collaboration aimed to compare specific procedures, technical specifications, and expected performance outcomes. The participants diverse backgrounds, spanning differences in road classifications, traffic loads, climatic conditions, and availability of materials, enabled the development of a comprehensive overview of current methodologies and provided insights into the potential expansion of cold recycling applications.

The comparative study of national practices has been structured into two papers: Part I focuses on the constituent materials and mixture composition, while Part II addresses testing protocols and the construction process. In detail, Part II reports a critical comparison of testing procedures, mechanical characteristics, construction methods and quality control procedures used in Italy, Canada, Poland, Brazil and USA, either adopted by selected road administrations or established by reference standards. Accordingly, all initial assumptions, terminology, definitions, and the general context presented in Part I should be considered fully referenced and applicable. This paper focuses on recycling techniques using both cement and bitumen as binders. Conversely, although the use of cement alone is a recognized and widely applied technique, as reported in Part I, Part II does not consider it, since a greater degree of uniformity in procedures and knowledge has already been achieved and shared worldwide.