Determining the impact of degree of blending and quality of reclaimed asphalt pavement on predicted pavement performance using pavement ME design

Past studies indicated binder from reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) aggregates only partial degree of blending (DOB) within hot mix asphalt (HMA). Most state agencies assume full blending, which may lead to under asphalting. This study focuses on determining the impact of it on predicted performance using ME level I analysis of six 25% RAP mixes. Dynamic complex modulus (DCM) tests were conducted with full and “actual” blending, all greater than 85%, using varying conditions comparing rutting and fatigue performance. The results indicate high DOB RAP mixes with uniform gradations have negligible effect on predicted performance and would not compromise performance.