To have a long-lasting asphalt surface, the mix should have sufficient time to cure. Emulsions, used with RAP, are made from soap and water. Adequate curing time is vital to allow the moisture to evaporate from the mix . The millings should be of uniform size. Larger lifts are difficult to compact.
Good compaction is critical for cold mix performance.
Heavy rollers are a must for proper cold mix compaction. All cold mixes must be sealed before the winter to prevent water penetration into the voids. On low volume roads cold mixes that are done correctly have the same performance and structural capacity as hot mix asphalt. The resulting mix should have a gradation similar to crushed gravel. It then serves as the base material for a new pavement surface.