What is Activate?
Activate is an eco-friendly, cost-effective solution that converts Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement (RAP) millings to “like new” paving material.
How does Activate work?
Asphalt millings, or RAP, are considered hazardous material. They pile up in outdoor storage due to continued use of virgin asphalt in pavement. A very small percentage (3-20%), of millings are allowed in a virgin asphalt mix. The use of OXIDIZED millings can reduce the longevity and performance of asphalt. Activate will make 100% full use of millings by reversing the oxidation and imparting new polymers into the mix. It reactivates the bitumen. It is formulated to be used by itself, and is an excellent answer for recycling RAP into usable paving material.
How long does Activate need to cure?
Once Activate is mixed with RAP millings, the chemical process takes about 20 minutes for the complete. After it is applied, it takes roughly 3 hours to cure completely.
How long has Activate been on the market?
The first commercial tests began in 2003. It has been continually updated and improved. It achieved full recognition in 2008.
How is Activate different from RePlay?
RePlay is a surface treatment and preservation agent used to penetrate into an existing asphalt pavement. It reverses the oxidation of the pavement and improves the structural matrix of the pavement by adding new polymers. Activate is designed to re-activate RAP millings into new paving material in order to recycle the ever-growing supply stuck in outdoor storage. Activate adds polymers, which are different from those in RePlay, to strengthen the mix.
Can an Activate mixture be stored?
Yes, after Activate is mixed with RAP, it can be stored for 2 to 6 months. Larger piles, over 100 tons, of the mixture can be left uncovered. Over time, the outside of the mixture may become stiff. Simply spray with Activate, which will soften the mixture again for use in about 10 minutes. Smaller piles need to be covered with a tarp and can be store for 5-6 weeks.
How is Activate applied?
Any conventional paving equipment can be used with Activate. Mixing only ½ to 1 1/4 gallon of Activate per ton of screened millings creates a usable paving material based upon individual mix design. Minimum 4% residual asphalt cement content is required. A pug mill is the recommended method for mixing Activate with RAP millings. However, manual mixing using a cement mixer or by hand will also work fine. For compaction, a rubber wheel vibratory roller applying 6 tons per square inch or a steel static roller applying 12 tons is recommended.
What are the requirements for the millings when using Activate?
Screened millings, ½” minus sized aggregates, is recommended. For base layers, ¾” minus and 1” minus sized aggregate can be used as well. The minimum thickness per lift needs to be 1 ¾”.
Where can Activate be used?
A RAP and Activate mixture will work great for pot holes, patches, bike paths, hiking trails, secondary roads, and as a base layer in paving applications.
When can you use Activate?
It is not a temperature dependent material, but the moisture content of the millings needs to be less than 5%. Activate is oil based and does not mix with water. It can be used in ALL seasons. In colder temperatures, Activate will require longer cure times.
How long will it take Activate to work?
Since Activate is an endothermic reaction, it does not require heating; it takes 20 minutes for the reaction to take place and become suitable for use.
What is the application rate for Activate?
Typically ½ to 1 1/4 gallon per ton of millings. Generally ½ to ⅔ gallon is sufficient.
What do you need for the application of Activate?
The RAP millings need to contain a minimum of 4% residual asphalt cement in the mixture for Activate to work properly. A sample should be sent to BioSpan. The sample will be analyzed to ensure that a proper amount of Activate is used for the best results.
How long does it take to mix Activate with the RAP?
This depends on the method used for mixing. A pug mill can mix the two components in 15 seconds. Mixing a batch together by hand, takes roughly 3 to 4 minutes. After mixing, the reaction takes 20 minutes to complete the chemical process. You must allow Activate at least 20 minutes to complete this process before it is used in any application.
What quantities of Activate can be shipped?
Totes and bulk, in either isotanks or tankers (6,400 gallons).
Are there any shipping restrictions on Activate?
There are, but only when shipping over water. Due to the restrictions placed on most chemicals by the United Nations, Activate is treated as a hazardous material when shipped over water, in the case that it should be spilled into an ocean. By the same standard, orange juice falls under this shipping compliance. However, when shipped over land in the Americas, it is not a hazardous material.
