Economic, energy-conscious and environmental factors have determined that cold-mix technology for new and recycled dense mixes deserves special attention. The topic is complex with regard to optimization of binders, materials and handling. This complexity is due both to physical and chemical aspects as well as technological and environmental ones. The range of application goes from low volume roads to heavily travelled autoroutes. Very significant examples of all types of cases are provided. This paper examines the mechanisms of cracks, cohesion, adhesion and drainability of water in the initial construction stages as well as during implementation. The problem of using standard binders and high consistency binders to obtain high modulus cold-mix, or more flexible surfaces, is thoroughly examined. The mechanical performance of these emulsion-treated surfaces is analyzed, both from the point of view of structural compatibility with the support, as well as the type of surface or rolling surface they can have. Lastly, we will examine the most relevant aspects of existing standards regarding the mixing project in various countries, and especially in Spain and in some countries of the Americas. (A)
Abstract