Research on the properties of mineral–cement emulsion mixtures using recycled road pavement materials

Abstract

The reduction in natural resources and aspects of environmental protection necessitate alternative uses of waste materials in the area of construction. Recycling is also observed in road construction where mineral–cement emulsion (MCE) mixtures are applied. The MCE mix is a conglomerate that can be used to make the base layer in road pavement structures. MCE mixes contain reclaimed asphalt from old, degraded road surfaces, aggregate improving the gradation, asphalt emulsion, and cement as a binder. The use of these ingredients, especially cement, can cause shrinkage and cracks in road layers. The article presents selected issues related to the problem of cracking in MCE mixtures. The authors of the study focused on reducing the cracking phenomenon in MCE mixes by using an innovative cement binder with recycled materials. The innovative cement binder based on dusty by-products from cement plants also contributes to the optimization of the recycling process in road surfaces. The research was carried out in the field of stiffness, fatigue life, crack resistance, and shrinkage analysis of mineral–cement emulsion mixes. It was found that it was possible to reduce the stiffness and the cracking in MCE mixes. The use of innovative binders will positively affect the durability of road pavements.