Cold Mix Technology, Environment Friendly Solution for Road Construction

Posted by Metal Barrier on January 23rd, 2018

Road constructions in the Northeastern region become very difficult due to its topographical weather. But thanks to cold mix technology using cold mix bitumen emulsionthat construction work can proceed in full swing during all seasons especially in wet seasons. Cold mix bitumen emulsion in India is a mixture of mineral aggregate, bitumen emulsion, and water that is mixed either in a plant or a mixer. For States like Meghalaya, Sikkim, Guwahati and much more where rains are very unpredictable this is the best technology to opt for. Choosing any other way for road construction can lead to delay in construction for a long time. It has gained immense popularity in recent times and if reports are to believed almost 4000 km of north- eastern roads have been constructed using cold mix technology.

The best part of cold mix technology is that it saves a lot of energy and fuel, almost 1500 liters of fuel is saved. Also as compared to hot mix technology it saves up to 50 percent of energy. Because of this energy saving feature, it is also known as Green technology in the infrastructural industry. Cold mix bitumen emulsionis water based and has moderate viscosity with best possible setting time to make it stable with different types of aggregates. It is generally chocolate brown in color and in a free-flowing liquid state.

As compared to hot mix technology, cold mix technology using cold mix bitumen emulsion have numerous advantages.

• It doesn't require heating, hence saves a lot of energy. It is the only pollution-free concept for road construction and hence called green technology as well.
• As heating is not required, hence it saves a lot on cost as well.
• It doesn't require very high skilled laborers, local or semi-skilled workers can easily execute the work of road construction.
• Construction work through cold mix technology is much faster as compared to hot mix technology.
• Work through cold mix technology is highly durable.
• Work can proceed in any season. Seasons like monsoons, extreme winters or dry winters does not have any effect on the progress of work.

For better results of cold mix technology, it is advisable not to dilute cold mix bitumen emulsion in India with any other solvent. Also before using it is always roll the drum containing the solution to and fro for better results.