Material design and performance evaluation of cold recycled precast components with 100% RAP incorporation

In the context of global climate change and resource shortages, this study designed the material composition and preparation process of cold-recycled precast components using emulsified asphalt as a binder. The effects of different RAP and binder types on precast component performance were evaluated using volumetric indices and mechanical property tests. Test results indicated that precast components with finely separated RAP exhibited 82.7% lower water absorption and 15.2% lower void ratio, outperforming that with original RAP. Binder optimisation significantly enhanced compressive and flexural strengths, incorporating water-based epoxy resin, leading to a maximum increase of 26.55% in compressive strength and 18.74% in flexural strength. After 5 times of freeze-thaw cycles and 60 days salt corrosion, test results showed that part of the specimens meet specification requirements. Although the cost of precast components with finely separated RAP was 17.1% higher, they exhibited good durability and were suitable as a substitute for cement concrete.