Recent applications and developments of reclaimed asphalt pavement in China, 2010–2021

In the past 20 years, China has carried out a large number of reclaimed asphalt pavement-related research studies and accumulated much engineering experience, which are relatively sufficient to be reviewed and shared with researchers from other countries. This paper synthesizes the applications and technologies of reclaimed asphalt pavement in China. Firstly, the historic development and application status of reclaimed asphalt pavement in China are introduced. Afterwards, the recycling technologies are classified into hot-mix reclaimed asphalt pavement (including hot in-place recycling and hot central-plant recycling), warm-mix reclaimed asphalt pavement and cold-mix reclaimed asphalt pavement, which involves cold in-place recycling, cold central-plant recycling and full depth reclamation. Meanwhile, the mix design, recycling process and comprehensive performances of binder/mixture are discussed to summarize construction and application experience. Additionally, the rejuvenator and rejuvenation mechanism are analyzed to guide the practical selection. Especially, the feasibility of multi-cycle repeated recycling is highlighted. With the enhancement of sustainability requirements in China, this article concludes the life-cycle assessment of reclaimed asphalt pavement materials, in terms of environmental, cost and social aspects. Typically, the necessary of developing pavement recycling decision system in China is emphasized. Statistical analysis of practical pavement recycling engineering projects in China is also summarized. Moreover, the combination of reclaimed asphalt pavement, innovative technologies, advanced materials and equipment are introduced and investigated, including photocatalytic materials, double-drum dryer, microcapsules and microwave technologies. Existing research and engineering results in China presents the promising benefits of reclaimed asphalt pavement. Finally, conclusions and future prospects are summarized to present research status and potential opportunities of reclaimed asphalt pavement application for further development.