How to Reuse Asphalt Millings: A Sustainable Guide for Cost-Effective Road Maintenance

Why Reuse Asphalt Millings?

Recycled asphalt millings offer significant environmental and economic benefits:

1. Reduced Landfill Waste: Over 90% of reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is reused in road projects, diverting millions of tons from landfills.

2. Cost Savings: Reusing millings eliminates the need for virgin materials, cutting project costs by up to 30%.

3. Durability: Crushed asphalt retains its binding properties, making it ideal for high-traffic areas when properly compacted.

5 Practical Ways to Reuse Asphalt Milling

1. Road Base and Subbase Construction

Asphalt millings excel as a base layer for new roads or parking lots. Their compactability and resistance to moisture reduce cracking and prolong pavement life. Studies show that combining millings with stabilizing agents like cement kiln dust enhances structural integrity.

Pro Tip: Use Koiho’s tungsten-carbide milling picks to achieve uniform particle size, critical for a stable base layer.

2. Driveway Resurfacing

Crushed asphalt is a popular choice for residential driveways. When compacted, it forms a smooth, durable surface comparable to fresh asphalt. For best results:

• Apply a 3–4-inch layer of millings.

• Use a vibratory roller for optimal compaction.

3. Pothole and Crack Repair

Mix millings with a small percentage of virgin asphalt binder to create a cost-effective patching material. This method reduces waste and extends the lifespan of existing pavements.

4. Permeable Pavement Solutions

Crushed asphalt’s porous nature makes it ideal for drainage systems or permeable parking lots. Pair it with geotextile fabric to prevent weed growth and maintain permeability.

5. Erosion Control

Use millings as a stabilizing layer for slopes or embankments. Their cohesive properties prevent soil erosion while promoting vegetation growth over time.

Can You Reuse Crushed Asphalt?

Absolutely! Crushed asphalt retains 95–98% of its original strength, making it a viable substitute for virgin aggregate. Key considerations include:

• Gradation: Ensure consistent particle size for proper compaction.

• Binding Agents: Add emulsified or foamed asphalt to enhance cohesion, especially in high-stress areas.

• Environmental Compliance: Test for contaminants like heavy metals before reuse.

Maximizing Efficiency with Advanced Milling Tools

The quality of recycled asphalt hinges on the milling process. Koiho Better Carbide’s road milling bits and picks are engineered for:

• Precision Cutting: Carbide-tipped teeth produce uniform millings, reducing the need for reprocessing.

• Extended Lifespan: Our heat-resistant alloys withstand high temperatures, minimizing downtime.

• Eco-Friendly Operation: Efficient milling reduces energy consumption by up to 20% compared to conventional tools.