Laboratory Study: Assessing Bitumen Blending Charts for Asphalt Mixes with Recycled Asphalt Pavement

This laboratory study focuses on validating the bitumen blending charts for asphalt mix performance. The laboratory research program involves comprehensive testing of asphalt mixes, including the evaluations of volumetric properties, compactability, rutting performance, and viscoelastic behavior. The study examines the influence of varying levels of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement Material (RAPM) content, ranging from 0 to 100% and constituting five asphalt mixes, on MUN-10 Quebec mix, a type of hot mix asphalt (HMA) used as a surface layer for municipalities. In the mix design process, RAPM extracted bitumen, classified as PG 82–22, is combined with a virgin bitumen PG 52S–34 when RAPM content is below 100% by aiming similar volumetric properties as effective binder percent and gradation. The study explores the degree of mobilization of RAPM bitumen, considering its characterization as a black rock or its contribution as a binder, as determined through performance tests. The insights collected from this study contribute significantly to validating and practically applying the bitumen blending chart as a tool for projecting asphalt mix performance or attributes. By understanding the impact of RAPM, this research provides valuable insights for optimizing asphalt mix designs and enhancing the sustainability of asphalt pavement construction.