###### Abstract  
The absence of standardized evaluation criteria for cold patch asphalt mixtures (CPAMs) leads to arbitrary material selection in pavement pothole repair, resulting in premature failure and recurrent damage. This study develops a comprehensive evaluation framework combining macro-performance tests with X-ray computed tomography (CT)-based meso-structural analysis. The macroscopic evaluation system incorporates six key parameters: aggregate gradation, binder-aggregate ratio, penetration strength, molding strength, residual rate, and stability retention. The CT-based meso-structural assessment quantifies void characteristics (longitudinal distribution, radial distribution, fractal dimension) and aggregate skeleton features (contact points, coordination number) through 3D reconstruction. Experimental results demonstrate that optimizing asphalt content (4.5-4.7%) with adjusted critical aggregate fractions (4.75 mm:35.0-45.0%; 2.36 mm:30.0-40.0%; 13.2 mm:1.0-1.2%; 9.5 mm:10.0-15.0%) significantly enhances repair durability. The established multiscale evaluation methodology provides a theoretical foundation for developing standardized CPAM quality specifications, particularly in emergency maintenance scenarios. c 2025 15 7121 16 June 2025 18 June 2025  
strates superior durability and repair quality, its application is constrained by stringent temperature requirements (typically > 150 \({}^{\circ}\)C) and limited effectiveness in cold, wet conditions [8]. Particularly for scattered, small-scale potholes (area < 0.5 m\({}^{2}\)), HMA proves economically inefficient [9]. In contrast, cold patch asphalt mixtures (CPAMs) offer distinct advantages in seasonal adaptability, environmental sustainability, and construction efficiency [10; 11], making them particularly suitable for emergency repairs. Nevertheless, the performance variability of CPAMs, influenced by material composition and repair conditions [12], necessitates rigorous quality evaluation protocols. The road performance of a CPAM is intrinsically linked to its material properties. Early research primarily focused on immediate performance indicators, particularly cohesion and workability [13; 14]. Subsequent studies expanded the evaluation framework to incorporate molding strength and moisture susceptibility, providing a more comprehensive durability assessment [15; 16; 17]. Notably, the Canadian Materials Company established a pioneering quality specification encompassing molding strength, low-temperature stability, moisture resistance, and workability [18]. However, existing evaluation methods predominantly rely on macroscopic tests, yielding inconsistent results across different materials and environmental conditions. This limitation underscores the need for microstructural analysis to establish universal quality standards. The advent of X-ray computed tomography (CT) and advanced digital image processing techniques has revolutionized the characterization of asphalt mixtures, enabling unprecedented insights into their internal microstructure. [PERSON] et al. [19] employed CT imaging to elucidate the complex interplay between aggregate orientation and void fraction distribution, providing critical insights into mixture structural characteristics. [PERSON] et al. [20] used CT images to study the homogeneity of asphalt mixtures and established separation evaluation criteria based on fractal dimension and imaging methods. [PERSON] et al. [21], [PERSON] et al. [22], and [PERSON] et al. [23] applied CT imaging to analyze the void anisotropy in asphalt mixtures. [PERSON] et al. [24] used CT images to investigate the characteristics of asphalt mixture crushing slender structure, including contact points and contact distance. Subsequent research by [PERSON] et al. [25] established quantitative relationships between void characteristics and aggregate gradation through CT-based analysis. The evolution of three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction techniques has further enhanced our understanding of asphalt mixture behavior. [PERSON] et al.