Performance assessment for emulsifies cold mic asphalt for low traffic roads in Ethiopia

Abstract

In recent years, there has been a growing shift towards the utilization of cold mix asphalt with bitumen emulsion as an alternative method for pavement maintenance and construction. This trend is driven by its environmentally sustainable attributes, which contribute to a reduced carbon footprint compared to hot-mix asphalt applications. The primary objective of this study was to assess performance of cold mix asphalt under laboratory setting, where varying proportions of emulsified binder, aggregate, and additives were examined using the Marshall method of mix design. The investigation involved, preparation of Marshall samples with proportions of 6% to 10% cationic slow setting emulsion (CSS-1h), 0% to 3% rock filler, and 0% to 3% ordinary Portland cement and aggregates. The results of this study indicated that additions of cement and rock filler can bring significant changes in the engineering characteristics of the cold mix, impacting parameters such as stability, flow rate, and density. Notably, mixtures containing 3% rock filler and no cement filler demonstrated inferior performance compared to other combinations. Conversely, mixtures with 0% rock filler and 3% cement filler exhibited superior results. The findings suggest that the most optimal outcomes were achieved when employing a combination of 2% rock filler and 1% cement filler.