Using fine aggregate matrix mortars to predict the curing behaviour of cement bitumen treated materials produced with different cements

Abstract

Cold recycling is a sustainable pavement rehabilitation technology. Among the different techniques, cement-bitumen treated materials (CBTM) take advantage of the presence of the two co-binders to achieve satisfying performance. A multiscale study addresses the effect of different cementitious binders on the mechanical behaviour of CBTM mixtures and fine aggregate matrix mortars produced with bitumen emulsion. The evolution of stiffness and strength during curing is measured and compared. Results show that the cement type has a critical effect on the mechanical behaviour and, under fixed curing conditions, changing the strength is equivalent to changing the dosage. Finally, fine aggregate matrix mortars offer an excellent prediction of mixture mechanical properties.