Liquid Drainage in the Compaction Process of Asphalt Emulsion Mixtures with Cement

Abstract

There is few research about the liquid drainage in the sample compaction of asphalt emulsion mixtures (AEMs). In this study, the liquid drainage of AEMs with cement is quantitatively measured. The air voids, indirect tensile strength, and moisture susceptibility of cured samples are investigated to explain the effect of liquid drainage. The test results indicate that the liquid drainage percentages of samples are influenced by emulsion content, cement content, compaction methods, and mold types. Liquid drainage is beneficial in terms of decreasing air voids and improving moisture resistance. However, these positive effects can be negligible when using a perforated mold. The drained liquid consists of free water and a small amount of asphalt droplets. The liquid drainage does not mean that the total air voids in samples are in a water saturation state. The liquid drainage in laboratory compaction cannot reflect the real water movement in construction compaction.