materials
Article
Effect of Rejuvenators on the Workability and Performances of
Reclaimed Asphalt Mixtures
Wei Tang 1 , Xin Yu 1,2, *, Ning Li 1 , Fuqiang Dong 1 , Zhongyuan Wang 1 and Yu Zhang 1






Citation: Tang, W.; Yu, X.; Li, N.;
Dong, F.; Wang, Z.; Zhang, Y. Effect of
Rejuvenators on the Workability and
Performances of Reclaimed Asphalt
Mixtures. Materials 2021, 14, 6385.
https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14216385
Academic Editors: Hussain Bahia,
Xueyan Liu, Sandra Erkens, Yue Xiao
and Yue Hou
Received: 30 September 2021
Accepted: 22 October 2021
Published: 25 October 2021
Publisher’s Note: MDPI stays neutral
with regard to jurisdictional claims in
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iations.
Copyright: © 2021 by the authors.
Licensee MDPI, Basel, Switzerland.
This article is an open access article
distributed under the terms and
conditions of the Creative Commons
Attribution (CC BY) license (https://
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4.0/).
Materials 2021, 14, 6385. https://doi.org/10.3390/ma14216385
1 College of Civil and Transportation Engineering, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China;
tw1125@hhu.edu.cn (W.T.); lining24@hhu.edu.cn (N.L.); hhu_dfq@hhu.edu.cn (F.D.);
wang2020@hhu.edu.cn (Z.W.); zzzyyy@hhu.edu.cn (Y.Z.)
2 School of Traffic and Transportation Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology,
Changsha 410114, China
* Correspondence: hhu_yuxin@126.com
Abstract: The use of rejuvenators has enhanced the workability of asphalt mixtures containing the
reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP). This conclusion is based on the determination of viscosity of
asphalt binders, while not validated from reclaimed asphalt mixtures. In this study, the effect of two
rejuvenators (ordinary and emulsified rejuvenator) on the workability of reclaimed asphalt mixtures
was evaluated by measuring the mixing torque and determining the air void content of reclaimed
mixtures. In addition, their effects on the performances of reclaimed mixture were studied via the
three indexes tests, rutting test and freeze-thaw splitting tests. The experimental results show that
mixing torque and air void content of reclaimed mixtures with the emulsified rejuvenator is 4% and
6% lower than that with the ordinary rejuvenator, respectively. This indicates that improvement of
the workability of reclaimed mixtures can be achieved by using an emulsified rejuvenator, but not by
an ordinary rejuvenator. That is also the reason that at least 20% greater high-temperature stability is
found for reclaimed mixtures by using the emulsified rejuvenator than using the ordinary rejuvenator.
In addition, reclaimed mixtures with the emulsified rejuvenator show similar moisture susceptibility
to that with the ordinary rejuvenator. This study provides a feasible method to assess the workability
effect of rejuvenators on reclaimed mixtures directly and recommends the use of an emulsified
rejuvenator to improve the workability and high-temperature stability of reclaimed mixtures.
Keywords: RAP; reclaimed asphalt mixture; workability; performance; emulsified rejuvenator
1. Introduction
The growing attention devoted to environmental conservation and sustainable de-
velopment, and the utilization of nonrenewable resources, such as oil and minerals, has
been limited gradually [1]. That results in the continuous rise in the price of asphalt and
aggregates [2]. In China, nearly 790 million tons of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is
produced every year [3,4]. After good regeneration and appropriate mix design, RAP can
substitute for the partial asphalt and aggregate in asphalt mixtures [5]. The use of RAP thus
has gained more and more popularity due to its environmental and economic benefits [6].
The binder in RAP, however, is highly stiff and viscous after its service life [1]. The
asphalt mixtures mixed with RAP are prone to yield fatigue failure and low temperature
cracking [7]. Some researchers and engineers recommended using a softer virgin asphalt to
recover the properties of aged asphalt to the level that resembles that of virgin asphalt [8,9].
Nevertheless, this method obtains inefficiently little effort when the asphalt binder is
heavily aged or more RAP is used [10]. At present, rejuvenators are commonly used in
reclaimed mixtures to recover the properties of aged asphalt [11,12]. Therefore, many
studies were carried out on the effect of rejuvenators on the properties of aged asphalt and
reclaimed mixtures so as to obtain good rejuvenators. It was reported by Zaumanis et al.
that the waste vegetable oil-based rejuvenator can largely reduce the performance grade
https://www.mdpi.com/journal/materials
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 2 of 12

and fatigue parameters of aged asphalt compared to six other types of rejuvenators [13,14].
Waste engine oil can also be used as a rejuvenator and it is found to enhance the mechanical
properties and moisture resistance of reclaimed mixtures [15,16]. Furthermore, the use of
waste polymer modified asphalt in combination with rejuvenators can significantly improve
the fatigue, rutting and moisture resistance of reclaimed mixtures [17]. Rejuvenators can
diffuse into aged asphalt resulting in the improvement of the physical properties of aged
asphalt, such as being more permeable and softer. It is believed that the rejuvenating
effect of rejuvenators is largely dependent on the diffusibility of the rejuvenator into aged
asphalt [18]. It is found that the diffusibility of rejuvenators increases with increasing
temperature and time [19]. Additionally, rejuvenators with low viscosity diffuse into aged
asphalt with more ease.
Based on the effect of rejuvenators on aged asphalt, it seems that the use of rejuvenators
can improve the workability of reclaimed asphalt mixtures [20]. It was reported by Ahmad
et al. that the vegetable oil-based rejuvenator improved the workability of reclaimed asphalt
mixtures due to the reduction in viscosity of aged asphalt [21]. Bio-based rejuvenators,
which are refined from cooking oil waste, can also enhance the workability of reclaimed
asphalt mixtures [8,22]. It should be noted that the conclusion about the improvement of
rejuvenators on the workability of reclaimed asphalt mixtures is based on the determination
of the viscosity of the asphalt binder. From the aspect of practical application, it is better
to discuss the effect of the rejuvenator on the properties of reclaimed asphalt mixtures
directly. In engineering practice, the rejuvenator is required to be heated at relatively high
temperature for usage, which will result in the volatilization of the light component and
aging of the rejuvenator [19]. If the rejuvenator is emulsified, it can be used without heating
and maybe improve the workability of reclaimed mixtures. Therefore, this study was
carried out to discuss the effect of rejuvenators on the workability and performances of
reclaimed asphalt mixtures. An emulsified rejuvenator was investigated and compared
with an ordinary rejuvenator. The workability was evaluated via measuring the torque
generated when mixing reclaimed mixtures and determining the air void content of the
compacted mix. The performances of reclaimed mixtures include high-temperature stability
and moisture susceptibility.

2. Materials Preparation
2.1. Raw Materials
An ordinary rejuvenator meeting ASTM D4552 specification was selected as the control
rejuvenator (CR). Table 1 shows the properties of the control rejuvenator. Using this control
rejuvenator as a base component, an emulsified rejuvenator (ER) was self-developed and
used in this study. Table 2 shows the properties of the emulsifiers used. The detailed
preparation procedure of ER is described in Figure 1. The water content by mass of ER
was 40%.

Table 1. Properties of CR used in this study.

Properties Test Results Requirements (RA-25) Specification Method

Viscosity, mm2 /s
2080 901~4500 ASTM D2171
(60 ◦ C)
Flash point, ◦ C 240 >219 ASTM D92
Saturates, % (wt) 22.3 <30 ASTM D2007
Wt change, %
0.5 <3 ASTM D1754
(After TFOT, 163 ◦ C)
Specific gravity 0.99 Report ASTM D70
 Table 2. Properties of emulsifier used in this study.

Properties Emulsifier A Emulsifier B

Materials 2021, 14, 6385 3 of 12
Appearance viscous liquid yellow liquid
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 3
Electric charge + +
Blend stability
Table 2. Properties of emulsifier used in this study.
quick-set quick-set
PH of aqueousTablesolution
2. Properties of emulsifier used in this
10 study. 11.3
Properties Emulsifier A Emulsifier B
Amine value (mg/g) Properties -
Emulsifier A 360–410
Emulsifier B
Appearance viscous liquid yellow liquid
Appearance viscous liquid yellow liquid
Electric charge + +
Blend stability Electric charge quick-set +
quick-set +
Blend stability
PH of aqueous solution 10 quick-set 11.3 quick-set
PH of aqueous solution
Amine value (mg/g) - 10 360–410 11.3
Amine value (mg/g) - 360–410

Figure 1. Flowchart of preparing ER.

Figure Figure Figure 1. Flowchart of preparing ER.

2 presents
1. Flowchart the
of preparing ER.images of the two rejuvenators and their rotational v
values at 2different
Figure presents temperatures.
Figure
the 2 presents
images of the Itimages
thetwo can be visually
of the
rejuvenators twoand found
rejuvenators from the
and their
their rotational images tha
rotational
viscosity visc
shows
values at better
different flowability
values at different
temperatures. than
It canthe CR at room
temperatures.
be visually found temperature.
It can from
be visually found
the images The
from
that rotational
the imagesviscosi
the shows
ER that th
better °C wasshows
at 20flowability 300 better
CRflowability
mPa·s,
than the than thelower
atdramatically
room temperature. CRTheat room
thantemperature.
thatviscosity
rotational of CRThe rotational
ofatER the ◦C
at 20same viscosity
temp
was 300 mPa · s, at 20 °C
dramatically was 300
lower mPa·s,
than dramatically
that of CR at lower
the same than that of
temperature. CR at the
Therefore, same
it is tempera
Therefore, it is believed that ER can be used without heating in engineering prac
believed that ERTherefore,
can be used it iswithout
believedheating
that ERincan be used without
engineering practice.heating in engineering practice
Styrene-butadiene-
rene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt binder, PGPG76-22, wasused used as th
styrene (SBS) modified asphalt binder, PG 76-22, was used as the virgin asphaltwas
rene-butadiene-styrene (SBS) modified asphalt binder, 76-22, and the as the v
asphalt and the fundamental material to produce laboratory-aged
fundamental material to produce laboratory-aged asphalt. The rotational viscosity of thisThe
asphalt and the fundamental material to produce laboratory-aged asphalt.
asphalt. The ro
rotat
viscosity
modified of this
asphalt viscosity ◦ of was
modified
at 135 C this 2690
modified
mPaasphalt
asphalt at 135the
·s and at
°C135was°C was
G*/sinδ 2690 2690
at 76 ◦ CmPa·s
mPa·swasand andkPa.
2.26 the G*/sinδ
the These at at
G*/sinδ 76 76
°C
tests were 2.26 kPa.
performed These tests
according to were performed
ASTM D4402 and according
AASHTO to ASTM D4402 and AASHTO T315
T315.
2.26 kPa. These tests were performed according to ASTM D4402 and AASHTO T

Control rejuvenator
Emulsified rejuvenator
10,000 Control rejuvenator
Emulsified rejuvenator
Rotational viscosity (mPa·s)

y = -0.02153x+4.599
10,000 R2 = 0.99
Rotational viscosity (mPa·s)

y = -0.02153x+4.599
R2 = 0.99

1,000

ER CR
1,000 300

ER 100 CR
300
20 35 50 65 80 95 99 110
Temperature (°C)

100 Figure 2. Rotational viscosity of ER and CR.

20 35 50 material
The RAP 65 was 80 99
95 from
obtained 110
the upper layer of a freeway which has alr
been serviced Temperature (°C)
for 11 years. After preprocessing, the RAP material was divided into
groups: 10~16 mm, 5~10 mm, and 0~5 mm. According to ASTM D2172, the asphalt co
Figure
Figure 2. 2. Rotational
Rotational viscosity
viscosity of ER
of ER and CR.and CR.
of RAP with corresponding size is determined as 2.3%, 1.6% and 7.0%, respective

The RAP material was obtained from the upper layer of a freeway which has
been serviced for 11 years. After preprocessing, the RAP material was divided in
groups: 10~16 mm, 5~10 mm, and 0~5 mm. According to ASTM D2172, the asphal
of RAP with corresponding size is determined as 2.3%, 1.6% and 7.0%, respect
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 4
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 4 of 12

addition, the gradations of extracted aggregates are determined and presented in Ta

TheThe RAPaggregates
virgin material waswere
obtained from
basalt the mineral
and upper layer of awas
filler freeway which has already
limestone.
been serviced for 11 years. After preprocessing, the RAP material was divided into three
groups: 10~16 mm, 5~10 mm, and 0~5 mm. According to ASTM D2172, the asphalt content
Table 3. Gradations of extracted aggregates.
of RAP with corresponding size is determined as 2.3%, 1.6% and 7.0%, respectively. In
addition, the gradations of extracted aggregates are determined
Passing Percentage and presented
of Different in Table 3.
Sieve Size/%
RAP Size (mm)
The virgin aggregates were basalt and mineral filler was limestone.
16 13.2 9.5 4.75 2.36 1.18 0.6 0.3 0.15 0
Table 3. 10~16 100
Gradations of extracted 89.3 32.8
aggregates. 10.5 9.1 7.6 6.4 4.8 3.9
5~10 100 100 91.2 18.6 11.0 8.8 7.5 6.2 5.4
RAP Size Passing Percentage of Different Sieve Size/%
0~5 100 100 100 90.9 62.4 41.0 29.6 19.6 15.8 1
(mm) 16 13.2 9.5 4.75 2.36 1.18 0.6 0.3 0.15 0.075
10~16 100 89.3 32.8 10.5 9.1 7.6 6.4 4.8 3.9 3.4
2.2.5~10
Preparation
100 of Recycled
100 Asphalt
91.2 Binders
18.6 11.0 8.8 7.5 6.2 5.4 4.8
100 0~5
100 100 90.9 62.4 41.0 29.6 19.6 15.8 13.7
Recycled asphalt binders were prepared to evaluate the regeneration effect of th
juvenators on aged asphalt. Prior to preparing recycled asphalt, laboratory-aged as
2.2. Preparation of Recycled Asphalt Binders
was first obtained via aging the SBS-modified asphalt in a rolling thin film oven (R
Recycled asphalt binders were prepared to evaluate the regeneration effect of the
at 163 °C for 5 h [23]. This method allows for sufficient aged asphalt to be collected w
rejuvenators on aged asphalt. Prior to preparing recycled asphalt, laboratory-aged asphalt
a short period of time. After that, preparation of recycled asphalt binder was ac
was first obtained via aging the SBS-modified asphalt in a rolling thin film oven (RTFO) at
plished
163 ◦ C for by
5 h blending aged asphalt,
[23]. This method allows forvirgin asphalt
sufficient aged and rejuvenator
asphalt together
to be collected withinat
a 175 °C
h. The weight ratios of aged asphalt to total recycled asphalt binder
short period of time. After that, preparation of recycled asphalt binder was accomplished were 30%, 50%
by blending ◦
100%. It is aged
noted asphalt,
hereinvirgin asphalt
that CR andand
ERrejuvenator
was addedtogether at 175 Cwith
in accordance for 2 different
h. The con
weight ratios of aged asphalt to total recycled asphalt binder were 30%,
The contents of CR and ER were set at 4% and 6.67% by weight of aged asphalt, re 50% and 100%.
It is noted herein that CR and ER was added in accordance with different contents. The
tively, which was done to ensure equal weight of pure rejuvenator in recycled aspha
contents of CR and ER were set at 4% and 6.67% by weight of aged asphalt, respectively,
which was done to ensure equal weight of pure rejuvenator in recycled asphalt.
2.3. Mix Design of Reclaimed Asphalt Mixtures
2.3. Mix Design
With of Reclaimed
standard Asphaltgradation,
SMA-13 Mixtures the reclaimed asphalt mixtures were designe
With standard
workability SMA-13 gradation,
and performance tests.the reclaimed
The asphalt in
RAP content mixtures were designed
the reclaimed mixtures wa
for workability and performance tests. The RAP content in the reclaimed mixtures was
(virgin asphalt mixtures), 30% and 50%, respectively. As depicted in Figure 3, the
0% (virgin asphalt mixtures), 30% and 50%, respectively. As depicted in Figure 3, the
bined gradations
combined gradationsofofthose
thoseasphalt
asphalt mixtures weredesigned
mixtures were designedasasclose
closeasas possible
possible to to elim
the interference
eliminate of gradation.
the interference Based
of gradation. BasedononMarshall mix
Marshall mix design,
design, the asphalt
the asphalt contents
contents
determined
were determined as as
6.0%
6.0%for
forthese reclaimedmixtures
these reclaimed mixtures
(see(see Table
Table 4). 4).

100
0% RAP
90 30% RAP
50% RAP
80 Upper limit
Passing percentage (%)

70 Lower limit

60

50

40

30

20

10

0.075 0.15 0.3 0.6 1.18 2.36 4.75 9.5 13.2 16

Sieve size (mm)
Figure
Figure 3. 3. Combined
Combined gradations
gradations of reclaimed
of reclaimed asphalt asphalt
mixtures.mixtures.
 30 34.0 18.0 4.3 8.8
50 30.1 8.3 0 7.3
Materials 2021, 14, 6385
1Rejuvenator: 4% and 6.67% was the content of control rejuvenator
5 of 12
and em
weight of aged asphalt, respectively.

3. Evaluation Methods
Table 4. Mix design results.

3.1. Rejuvenator 1
RAP Workability Evaluation Methods
Virgin Mineral Materials (%) AC
(%)
10~15 mm 5~10 mm 0~3 mm Filler (%) (%)
0 The rotational
39.8 viscosity
31.8 of asphalt
12.1 10.3 binder 6.0 is commonly 0 used to
30 34.0 18.0 4.3 8.8 6.0 4/6.67
and compaction
50 30.1 temperature
8.3 0of asphalt 7.3 mixtures 6.0 [24].4/6.67
Similarly, the
mixtures is also reflected in the mixing and compaction process
1 Rejuvenator: 4% and 6.67% was the content of control rejuvenator and emulsified rejuvenator by weight of aged

asphalt, respectively.
workability in the two process was assessed by measuring mixing t
3. Evaluation Methods
air void content of compacted mix, respectively.
3.1. Workability Evaluation Methods
The rotational viscosity of asphalt binder is commonly used to determine the mixing
3.1.1.
and Measurements
compaction of Mixing
temperature of asphalt mixturesTorque
[24]. Similarly, the workability of asphalt
mixtures is also reflected in the mixing and compaction process [25]. In this study, the
It is
workability confirmed
in the in many
two process was assessed previous
by measuringstudies thatandthe
mixing torque torque
determining gene
air void content of compacted mix, respectively.
phalt mixtures is highly related to the mixing workability of mixtu
mixing
3.1.1. torqueofmeans
Measurements the better workability of asphalt mixtures. In
Mixing Torque
It is confirmed in many previous studies that the torque generated when stirring
torque was used to characterize the workability of reclaimed asph
asphalt mixtures is highly related to the mixing workability of mixtures [26–28]. The lower
that torque
mixing can measure theworkability
means the better torque was self-fabricated
of asphalt and the
mixtures. In this study, used.
mixing Figure
torque was used to characterize the workability of reclaimed
of this device, which mainly consists of (1) motor box (ANGN asphalt mixtures. A device
that can measure the torque was self-fabricated and used. Figure 4 shows a photograph of
China),
this (2) mixing
device, which paddle,
mainly consists of (1) (3) metal
motor bucket,
box (ANGNI, andShanghai,
AN1000, (4) thermostat.
China), Th
(2)vice
mixing paddle, (3) metal bucket, and (4) thermostat. The motor allows
to stir at different speeds. Importantly, the device includes a d the device to stir
at different speeds. Importantly, the device includes a data-acquisition system that enables
it that enables
to record it readings
the torque to record the torque readings automatically.
automatically.

Figure 4. Mixing
Figure torque tester.
4. Mixing torque tester.

The reclaimed mixtures with RAP content of 30% was selected

mixtures were used as the control group. According to trial and e
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 6 of 12

The reclaimed mixtures with RAP content of 30% was selected for this test and virgin
mixtures were used as the control group. According to trial and error, each batch of
asphalt mixtures for testing weighed 800 g approximately, which ensured the stable data
during mixing process. The mixing temperatures were set at 130 ◦ C, 150 ◦ C and 170 ◦ C.
Prior to testing, the mixtures were heated 5 ◦ C higher than mixing temperature in an
oven. Upon completing the heating step, the mixtures and rejuvenator were placed into
the metal bucket. The mixing paddle started to rotate at a constant speed of 100 r/min.
Meanwhile, data-acquisition system was lunched to record the torque values. The test
lasted approximately 3 min in general.

3.1.2. Determination of Air Void Content

There is a method of evaluating the workability of asphalt mixtures in compaction
process, which is determined with the use of air void content of specimens produced with
Marshall compactor [25,29]. The better workability of asphalt mixtures can be obtained
if the air void content is lower. In this study, Marshall specimens were firstly prepared
following mix design in Table 4. Then, the air void contents of these specimens were tested
to assess the workability. The detailed procedures are as follows.
1. The RAP, virgin aggregates and virgin asphalt were heated at 140 ◦ C, 180 ◦ C and
170 ◦ C for 2 h, respectively. The CR was heated to 110 ◦ C, while the CR was used at
room temperature without heating;
2. The RAP was premixed with rejuvenator in a laboratory mixer (model F-20, Changji,
Shanghai, China). The virgin aggregates, virgin asphalt and powder were successively
added into the mixer for mixing. Each mixing duration was 60 s;
3. After mixing, the loose reclaimed mixtures were subjected to heat preservation in an
oven. The preserved temperature was 160 ◦ C and preserved time was 1 h;
4. Marshall specimens were prepared with 75 blows per side following the Chinese
specification JTG-E20 T0702. Lastly, surface-dry method was used to measure the air
void content.

3.2. Performances Evaluation Methods

3.2.1. Three Indexes Tests
Three indexes of asphalt binder refers to the softening point, the penetration and the
ductility. To evaluate the regeneration effect of rejuvenator on the aged asphalt, three in-
dexes tests were performed on the recycled asphalt binders. These test methods referred to
the ASTM D36, D5, and D113, respectively.

3.2.2. Rutting Test

The rutting test was performed in accordance with JTG-E20 T0719 to evaluate the
high-temperature stability of reclaimed mixtures [24]. The test temperature was 60 ◦ C and
the wheel pressure was 0.7 MPa. After testing, the dynamic stability (DS) was determined
to evaluate the high-temperature stability.

3.2.3. Freeze-Thaw Splitting Tests

It is essential to evaluate the moisture susceptibility of reclaimed asphalt mixtures
when using emulsified rejuvenator, since moisture is induced into the rejuvenator. In
this study, the freeze-thaw splitting test was used to assess the moisture susceptibility of
asphalt mixtures. This test was conducted according to JTG-E20 T0729. Marshall specimens
(50 blows for each side) were prepared and then equally divided into dry group and
freeze-thaw group. The splitting test was performed for each group to determine tensile
strength ratio (TSR), viz. the evaluation index of moisture susceptibility.
 Materials 2021, 14, 6385 7 of 12

4. Results and Discussions

4.1. Effect of Rejuvenators on the Workability of Reclaimed Mixtures
4.1.1. Mixing Torque
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 The torque values are presented in Figure 5. As expected, the torque values decreased 7
with the increase of temperature due to the reduction in the viscosity of the asphalt binder.
The reclaimed mixtures with CR exhibited higher torque values than the virgin mixtures
at the same testing temperatures. The higher torque values for reclaimed mixtures can be
attributed
attributed to to
thethe aged
aged asphalt
asphalt in RAP,
in RAP, which which
was more was more
stiff stiff and
and viscous viscous
than than the v
the virgin
asphalt.This
asphalt. This also
also gives
gives a reasonable
a reasonable explanation
explanation asproduction
as to why to why production
temperaturetemperatur
for
reclaimed
reclaimed asphalt
asphalt mixture
mixture is required
is required to ◦be
to be 5~10 5~10 °C
C higher thanhigher
that forthan that
virgin for virgin
mixtures in mix
Chinese specification JTG T55-2019 [30].
in Chinese specification JTG T55-2019 [30].

105
Virgin mixture without rejuvenator
Reclaimed mixture with CR
Reclaimed mixture with ER
100
97.8
96.9 96.5
95.8
Torque (n·cm)

95
92.6 92.3

90
87.2

85.4
85 84

80
130 150 170
Temperature (°C)
Figure5. 5.
Figure Torque
Torque values
values of asphalt
of asphalt mixtures
mixtures at different
at different mixing temperatures.
mixing temperatures.

By comparing the torque values obtained from the reclaimed asphalt mixtures, it
By comparing the torque values obtained from the reclaimed asphalt mixtures, i
can be seen that reclaimed mixtures with ER showed lower torque values than that with
be seen
CR, that reclaimed
indicating mixtures
that ER helped with the
to improve ER workability
showed lower torque values
of reclaimed mixtures.than
Thisthat with
can be due to that compared to oil mediums, the oil-water emulsified film showed better This ca
indicating that ER helped to improve the workability of reclaimed mixtures.
due to thateffect
lubricating compared to oil
during the mediums,
mixing processthe oil-water
[31]. emulsified
The resistance filmaggregates
between showed better l
particles, thus, was reduced. Furthermore, the greater difference in torque values
cating effect during the mixing process [31]. The resistance between aggregates for the part
reclaimed mixtures at higher temperature (150 ◦ C and 170 ◦ C) can be obtained. The torque
thus, was reduced. Furthermore, the greater difference in torque values for the recla
values for reclaimed mixtures with ER were even lower compared to virgin mixtures.
mixtures at higher temperature (150 °C and 170 °C) can be obtained. The torque v
for reclaimed
4.1.2. mixtures with ER were even lower compared to virgin mixtures.
Air Void Content
Figure 6 presents the air void content of the Marshall specimen. The air void content
4.1.2.
of virginAir Void Content
mixtures was within the limit of 3~4%, while that of reclaimed mixtures with
CR exceeded the upper
Figure 6 presents limit.
the This implies
air void that the
content of addition of RAPspecimen.
the Marshall in asphalt The
mixtures
air void co
exhibited an adverse effect on the workability in the compaction process. By comparing
of virgin mixtures was within the limit of 3~4%, while that of reclaimed
the air void contents between the reclaimed mixtures produced with CR and ER, it can be
mixtures wit
exceeded
found the
that an upper limit.6%
approximately This implies
degree that the addition
of workability of RAP
was improved in asphalt
by using mixtures e
ER. These
ited an are
findings adverse effect
consistent onthe
with theresults
workability
showed in by the compaction
the mixing torqueprocess. Bymixing
test. Unlike comparing th
void contents
workability, between the
the workability in reclaimed
the compaction mixtures
process produced with
of reclaimed CR and
mixtures ER, it can be fo
produced
with
thatER
andid not exceed the level
approximately of that ofofthe
6% degree virgin mixtures.
workability wasThat result can
improved bybeusing
seen from
ER. These
the comparison of air void contents of the two mixtures.
ings are consistent with the results showed by the mixing torque test. Unlike mixing w
ability, the workability in the compaction process of reclaimed mixtures produced
ER did not exceed the level of that of the virgin mixtures. That result can be seen from
comparison of air void contents of the two mixtures.
Materials 2021,14,
Materials2021, 14,6385
6385 88 of
of 12
12

4.2. Effect of Rejuvenators on the Performances of Reclaimed Mixtures

4.2.1. Three Indexes of Recycled Asphalt Binders
Test results of three indexes of different asphalt binders are shown in Figure 7. It was
found that after long-term aging, the softening point, penetration and ductility of virgin
asphalt all decreased. With the incorporation of rejuvenators into the aged asphalt, the
softening point decreased, and the penetration and ductility increased. This indicates the
performances of the aged asphalt had been partially recovered. However, three indexes
of recycled asphalt were difficult to meet the requirements in JTG-F40 specification [32]
simultaneously when only rejuvenator was added. In the case of the addition of rejuvenator
and virgin asphalt, aged asphalt content can reach to 70% in view of the fact that these
indexes of recycled asphalt all satisfied the requirements. In addition, the values of three
indexes of recycled asphalt with ER were equivalent to that of recycled asphalt with CR.
This may be attributed to complete dissipation of moisture during the preparation process
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 8 of of
of recycled asphalt or little residual water that basically had no effect on the properties 12
recycled asphalt [33].

Figure 6. Air void content of each studied mixture.

4.2. Effect of Rejuvenators on the Performances of Reclaimed Mixtures

4.2.1. Three Indexes of Recycled Asphalt Binders
Test results of three indexes of different asphalt binders are shown in Figure 7. It was
found that after long-term aging, the softening point, penetration and ductility of virgin
asphalt all decreased. With the incorporation of rejuvenators into the aged asphalt, the
softening point decreased, and the penetration and ductility increased. This indicates the
performances of the aged asphalt had been partially recovered. However, three indexes
of recycled asphalt were difficult to meet the requirements in JTG-F40 specification [32]
simultaneously when only rejuvenator was added. In the case of the addition of rejuvena-
tor and virgin asphalt, aged asphalt content can reach to 70% in view of the fact that these
indexes of recycled asphalt all satisfied the requirements. In addition, the values of three
indexes of recycled asphalt with ER were equivalent to that of recycled asphalt with CR.
This may be attributed to complete dissipation of moisture during the preparation process
of recycled asphalt or little residual water that basically had no effect on the properties of
Figure 6. Air
recycled Air void
void content
asphalt [33]. of each studied mixture.
content

4.2. Effect of Rejuvenators on the Performances of Reclaimed Mixtures

4.2.1. Three Indexes of Recycled Asphalt Binders
Test results of three indexes of different asphalt binders are shown in Figure 7. It was
found that after long-term aging, the softening point, penetration and ductility of virgin
asphalt all decreased. With the incorporation of rejuvenators into the aged asphalt, the
softening point decreased, and the penetration and ductility increased. This indicates the
performances of the aged asphalt had been partially recovered. However, three indexes
of recycled asphalt were difficult to meet the requirements in JTG-F40 specification [32]
simultaneously when only rejuvenator was added. In the case of the addition of rejuvena-
tor and virgin asphalt, aged asphalt content can reach to 70% in view of the fact that these
indexes of recycled asphalt all satisfied the requirements. In addition, the values of three
indexes of recycled asphalt with ER were equivalent to that of recycled asphalt with CR.
This may be attributed to complete dissipation of moisture during the preparation process
of recycled asphalt or(a)little residual water that basically had no effect
(b) on the properties of
recycled asphalt [33].
Figure 7. Cont.
 Materials 2021,14,
Materials2021, 14,6385
6385 9 of
of 12
12
, 6385 9 of 12

(c)
(c)
Figure 7. Three indexes of different asphalt binders: (a) softening point; (b) penetration; (c) ductility.
Figure 7. Three indexes ofFigure
different asphalt
7. Three binders:
indexes (a) softening
of different point;
asphalt (b) penetration;
binders: (c) point;
(a) softening ductility.
(b) penetration; (c) ductility.
4.2.2. High-Temperature
4.2.2. High-TemperatureStabilityStability
4.2.2. High-Temperature Stability
Thedynamic
The dynamic stability(DS) (DS) results of of each
each studied
studied mixture
mixture are
are presented in Figure 8.
The dynamic stability (DS) results ofstability
each studied results
mixture are presented in Figure 8. presented in Figure 8.
Thehigher
The higherDS DSmeans
meansthe thebetter
betterhigh-temperature
high-temperaturestability.
stability.AsAscan
canbe
befound
foundin inthis
thisfigure,
figure,
The higher DS means the better high-temperature stability. As can be found in this figure,
theDS
the DSvalues
valuesof ofall
allreclaimed
reclaimedmixtures
mixtureswerewerehigher
higherthan
thanthatthatof
ofthe
thevirgin
virginmixture.
mixture. How-
How-
the DS values of all reclaimed mixtures were higher than that of the virgin mixture. How-
ever, the
ever, the DS DS values
values ofof reclaimed mixtures did not vary monotonously with the increasing
ever, the DS values of reclaimed mixtures didreclaimed mixtures did not
not vary monotonously vary
with themonotonously
increasing with the increasing
RAP content.
content. The
The sample
sample with
with 30%
30% RAP
RAP content
content had
had the
the highest
highest DS. Among these re-
RAP content. The sample with 30% RAP content had the highest DS. Among these re- DS. Among these re-
RAP
claimed mixtures, the mix with CR showed lower DS than the mix
withwith ER, indicating
claimed mixtures, the claimed
mix with mixtures,
CR showedthe mix withDS
lower CRthan
showed lower
the mix DS ER,
with thanindicating
the mix ER, indicating that
that using
using ER in ER in reclaimed
reclaimed mixturesmixtures
results results
in in high-temperature
better better high-temperature stability.
stability. It was It was
found
that using ER in reclaimed mixtures results in better high-temperature stability. It was
foundthat
above abovethe that theER
use of use of ER improved the workability of reclaimed mixtures, which
found above that the use of ER improved the improved
workability theofworkability of reclaimed
reclaimed mixtures, mixtures, which
which results in
resultsairinvoid
lower lower air void
content content inmixtures
in reclaimed reclaimed mixtures
(see Figure 6). (see Figure
This may6).
be This may be
the reason whythe
results in lower air void content in reclaimed mixtures (see Figure 6). This may be the
reasonhigh-temperature
better why better high-temperature stability of
stability of reclaimed reclaimed
mixture withmixture
ER was with ER was obtained.
obtained.
reason why better high-temperature stability of reclaimed mixture with ER was obtained.

Figure8.8.The
Figure Thedynamic
dynamicstability
stability(DS)
(DS)results
resultsof
ofeach
eachstudied
studiedmixture.
mixture.
Figure 8. The dynamic stability (DS) results of each studied mixture.

4.2.3. Moisture Susceptibility

4.2.3. Moisture Susceptibility
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 10 of 12

Materials 2021, 14, 6385 10 of 12

4.2.3. Moisture Susceptibility

Figure
Figure 9 shows the tensile
tensile strength
strengthratio
ratio(TSR)
(TSR)ofofthe
themixtures.
mixtures.Obviously,
Obviously,the theTSRTSR of
of reclaimed
reclaimed mixtures
mixtures was was lower
lower thanthan
thatthat of virgin
of virgin mixtures,
mixtures, indicating
indicating that that the of
the use useRAPof
RAP in asphalt
in asphalt mixtures
mixtures is adverse
is adverse to theto the moisture
moisture sensibility.
sensibility. There
There are twoare two probable
probable factors
factors contributing
contributing to the to the worse
worse moisturemoisture susceptibility
susceptibility of reclaimed
of reclaimed mixtures.
mixtures. The first
The first is
is that
that low surface free energy of aged asphalt weakens the bond between
low surface free energy of aged asphalt weakens the bond between aggregates and aged aggregates and
aged asphalt
asphalt [34]. [34]. The aged
The aged asphalt
asphalt stripsstrips
fromfrom the RAP
the RAP particles
particles withwith
more more
easeease under
under the
the freeze-thaw
freeze-thaw condition,
condition, which
which results
results in the
in the water
water damage.
damage. TheThe second
second cancanbe be
thatthat
thethein-
incomplete blendingbetween
complete blending betweenvirgin
virginasphalt
asphaltandand aged
aged asphalt
asphalt yields
yields aa weak
weak interface,
interface, and
and
water
water damage
damage tends
tendstotooccur
occuratatthis
thisinterface
interfaceeasily
easily[35].
[35]. The
The reclaimed
reclaimed mixtures
mixtureswith withER ER
exhibited the nearly equivalent TSR to that with CR, although water was
exhibited the nearly equivalent TSR to that with CR, although water was induced in ER. induced in ER.
Overall,
Overall, all
all studied
studied mixtures
mixtures hadhad good
good moisture
moisture susceptibility,
susceptibility,because
becausethese
thesespecimens
specimens
showed TSR values beyond the requirements in Chinese JTG-F40
showed TSR values beyond the requirements in Chinese JTG-F40 specification. specification.

Figure 9. The
Figure 9. The tensile
tensile strength
strength ratio
ratio (TSR)
(TSR) results
resultsof
ofeach
eachstudied
studiedmixture.
mixture.

5. Conclusions
5. Conclusions
The effects of an ordinary rejuvenator and self-developed emulsified rejuvenator on
The effects of an ordinary rejuvenator and self-developed emulsified rejuvenator on
the workability of reclaimed asphalt mixtures were compared by measuring the mixing
the workability of reclaimed asphalt mixtures were compared by measuring the mixing
torque and determining the air void content. Additionally, their effects on the high-
torque and determining the air void content. Additionally, their effects on the high-tem-
temperature stability and moisture susceptibility of asphalt mixtures were evaluated.
perature stability and moisture susceptibility of asphalt mixtures were evaluated. Based
Based on the test results, some major conclusions can be drawn as follows.
on the test results, some major conclusions can be drawn as follows.
i. The emulsified rejuvenator can be used without heating in engineering practice owing
i. The emulsified rejuvenator can be used without heating in engineering practice ow-
to its low viscosity, while the ordinary rejuvenator has to be heated.
ing to its low viscosity, while the ordinary rejuvenator has to be heated.
ii. The addition of RAP into asphalt mixtures has an adverse effect on the workability.
ii. The addition of RAP into asphalt mixtures has an adverse effect on the workability.
Compared to using an ordinary rejuvenator, reclaimed mixtures prepared using
Compared to using an ordinary rejuvenator, reclaimed mixtures prepared using the
the emulsified rejuvenator exhibit lower torques and air void contents. This can be
emulsified rejuvenator exhibit lower torques and air void contents. This can be at-
attributed to that using oil-water emulsified medium shows better lubricating effect
tributed to that using oil-water emulsified medium shows better lubricating effect
during the mixing and compaction process.
during the mixing and compaction process.
iii. Reclaimed mixtures with the emulsified rejuvenator show similar moisture suscepti-
iii. Reclaimed mixtures with the emulsified rejuvenator show similar moisture suscepti-
bility to that with the ordinary rejuvenator. At least 20% higher high-temperature
bility to that with thefor
stability is obtained ordinary rejuvenator.
reclaimed mixtures Atby least
using20%thehigher high-temperature
emulsified rejuvenator
stability is obtained for reclaimed mixtures by using the emulsified
than an ordinary rejuvenator. This can be attributed to better workability rejuvenator than
when
an ordinary rejuvenator. This can be attributed to better workability when
using the emulsified rejuvenator, which results in lower air voids content in the using the
emulsified rejuvenator, which results in lower air voids content in the reclaimed mix-
reclaimed mixtures.
tures.
Materials 2021, 14, 6385 11 of 12

iv. The emulsified rejuvenator improves the workability and high-temperature stability
of reclaimed mixtures, while not affecting the moisture susceptibility of mixtures.
Therefore, rejuvenators are recommended to be emulsified for use in practice.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, W.T., F.D. and X.Y.; methodology, W.T. and N.L.; formal
analysis, W.T.; investigation, W.T.; data curation, Y.Z. and Z.W.; writing—original draft preparation,
W.T.; writing—review and editing, X.Y.; supervision, X.Y.; project administration, W.T. and N.L.;
funding acquisition, W.T. and N.L. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of
the manuscript.
Funding: This research was funded by Postgraduate Research & Practice Innovation Program of
Jiangsu Province, grant number KYCX21_0496 and Fundamental Research Funds for the Central
Universities, grant number B210202050.
Institutional Review Board Statement: Not applicable.
Informed Consent Statement: Not applicable.
Data Availability Statement: No new data were created or analyzed in this study. Data sharing is
not applicable to this article.
Acknowledgments: The authors express their appreciation to Jiangsu Highway Engineering Mainte-
nance Co., Ltd. for providing the RAP materials.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

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