Synopsis of Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP) Material

Recycled Asphalt Pavement (RAP) is encouraged to be used in the construction of new roadways and pavements. Its use reduces cost and environmental impacts of road construction by reusing existing asphalt pavement. In Minnesota existing asphalt pavement material is often crushed and blended with other aggregates to create aggregate base or shouldering materials or transported to an Asphalt plant, crushed, and incorporated into new asphalt material. Both strategies reduce demand for virgin aggregates. Incorporation into new asphalt material has the additional benefit of reducing demand for asphalt binder material. It is recognized that a greater benefit to the environment and economy can be realized when incorporated into new asphalt material. This document was developed as a reference for local agencies that have minimal knowledge of incorporating RAP material into new asphalt and would like to understand more.