Comparative Study of Cold In-Place Recycling and Hot Mix Asphalt for Road Rehabilitation in Nigeria: A Cost-Benefit Analysis

Authors

  • Uwemedimo Asuquo Ndem * Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua.
  • Victor Effiong MFON Department of Civil Engineering Technology, Akwa Ibom State Polytechnic, Ikot Osurua.
  • Samuel Ime Ekanem Department of Building Technology, University of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria.

https://doi.org/10.48314/ijrceai.v3i2.53

Abstract

Nigeria's extensive road network faces severe deterioration due to chronic under-maintenance, overloading, extreme weather, and funding constraints. Traditional Hot Mix Asphalt (HMA) rehabilitation, while widely used, is resource-intensive, costly, and environmentally burdensome. This study conducts a comprehensive comparative analysis of Cold In-place Recycling (CIR) and HMA for pavement rehabilitation in Nigeria, focusing on technical performance, lifecycle costs, and cost-benefit outcomes under local conditions. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research integrates literature review, case studies across geo-political zones, Lifecycle Cost Analysis (LCCA), and Cost-Benefit Analysis (CBA) using metrics such as Net Present Value (NPV), Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR), and Internal Rate of Return (IRR) over a 20-year period. Data sources include secondary reports from federal agencies, international benchmarks adjusted for Nigeria, and stakeholder insights. Findings reveal that CIR offers 20-50% initial cost savings, lower lifecycle and user costs, reduced construction disruptions, and superior environmental benefits (23% lower CO₂ emissions and significant virgin material conservation). CIR demonstrates higher NPV and BCR (1.8-3.2) compared to HMA, proving more economically viable for medium- and low-volume roads, though hybrids may suit high-traffic corridors. Challenges include limited expertise, equipment availability, and weather dependency for CIR. The study recommends greater adoption of CIR to optimize budgets, enhance sustainability, and address infrastructure deficits. 

Keywords:

Cold in-place recycling, Hot mix asphalt, Road rehabilitation, Cost-benefit analysis, Lifecycle costing, Pavement recycling

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Published

2026-06-15

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 2 (2026): International Journal of Researches on Civil Engineering with Artificial Intelligence (IJRCEAI)

Section

Articles

How to Cite

Ndem, U. A., Mfon, V. E., & Ekanem, S. I. . (2026). Comparative Study of Cold In-Place Recycling and Hot Mix Asphalt for Road Rehabilitation in Nigeria: A Cost-Benefit Analysis. International Journal of Researches on Civil Engineering With Artificial Intelligence , 3(2), 122-143. https://doi.org/10.48314/ijrceai.v3i2.53