Study of Cold Patch Asphalt Concrete

ABSTRACT Asphalt mixtures are the main types of materials that make up the asphalt surface layers of Brazilian pavements. In this way, this study aimed to study asphalt mixtures, known as Stock Asphalt Concrete (CAE), which has as its differential the proposal to be stored in bulk or bagged and applied cold. The physical, volumetric and mechanical characterizations of three CAE samples from different manufacturers were performed to understand its composition and mechanical behavior. In addition, particle size evaluations were performed using Bailey and Dominant Aggregate Size Range (DASR) methodologies. The results showed that CAE mixtures did not meet the Brazilian standard requirements and presented different results than expected for a conventional asphalt concrete, indicating that it should not be approached as such. In addition, CAE did not meet the workability and volume parameters. The binder viscosity, dynamic modulus and Flow Number results indicated that one of the samples has high rigidity, which may be related to the aging of the asphalt binder and consequent stiffening of the mixture. Finally, it was found that CAE is aging during storage, which is not suitable for asphalt mixtures. Therefore, one concluded that CAE, without the adoption of production and application control criteria, cannot be used as a new surface course, and its application is limited only for maintenance works as blacktop.