Optimization of High Recycled Asphalt Aggregate Content Mixtures for Cold Climate Regions

PROJECT COST:

330 301 $

PRIMA CONTRIBUTION:

44 960 $

PROJECT DETAILS:

Canada has the 7th largest road network in the world, with more than 1,000,000 km of roads (PIARC, 2015). Approximately 95% of paved roads are asphalt pavements. According to the Canadian Infrastructure Report Card (Canada Infrastructure, 2016), more than 25% of municipal roads are in poor condition. Several countries use high percentages of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) in road construction. However, in Quebec, the MTQ currently limits the use of recycled materials to 20% due to the challenges associated with harsh winter conditions.

To fully benefit from the economic and environmental advantages of using the RAP, it is essential to develop a mix design and characterization method specifically adapted to asphalt mixtures containing high RAP content.

In addition to advancing knowledge in asphalt materials, including rheology, mix design, and thermal analysis, and providing training for seven highly qualified personnel (HQP), the main objective of this collaborative research project is to develop a mix design method for high-RAP asphalt mixtures suitable for cold regions such as Canada.

More specifically, this project aims to study recycled asphalt mixtures containing up to 50% reclaimed asphalt pavement and demonstrate their performance under real field conditions on a Quebec Road, providing results that can be presented to road authorities and decision-makers.