# Experimental and Field Assessment of Mineral–Cement–Emulsion Mixtures Containing Recycled Components

## TL;DR

This study shows that road base mixtures made with recycled materials can work well if properly designed, though cracking may occur due to shrinkage and temperature changes.

## Contribution

The study introduces a sustainable cold-recycled MCE mixture using reclaimed materials and evaluates its mechanical and field performance.

## Key findings

- MCE mixtures achieved an average ITS of 1.09 MPa and stiffness modulus of 5873 MPa after 28 days.
- Field tests showed good structural integrity but transverse cracks developed due to shrinkage and thermal effects.
- Recycled MCE mixtures can meet technical standards with optimized binder and curing conditions.

## Abstract

This study investigates the performance of mineral–cement–emulsion (MCE) mixtures produced with reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) and recycled mineral aggregates for use in road base layers. The aim was to evaluate the mechanical properties, field performance, and key factors influencing the cracking behavior of these sustainable cold-recycled mixtures. Approximately 160 laboratory tests were performed to determine indirect tensile strength (ITS), stiffness modulus (IT-CY), bulk density, and air-void content. The MCE mixture achieved an average ITS of 1.09 MPa and stiffness modulus of 5873 MPa after 28 days of curing, confirming compliance with design requirements. The field investigation of a test section showed good structural integrity and compaction, although several transverse cracks developed during the first year of service. The mechanistic interpretation attributed these cracks to combined cement hydration shrinkage and thermal contraction effects. The results indicate that MCE mixtures made with recycled materials can meet technical specifications while reducing environmental impact, provided that binder proportions and curing conditions are carefully optimized.