Dust suppression is an essential aspect of road maintenance, especially for unsealed haul roads. Aside from reducing the adverse impact of dust on the environment and the health of workers and nearby communities, it can also lead to less vehicle maintenance, optimal tyre life and improved operational efficiency.
Many factors may affect dust lift-off, including road surface, traffic volume, vehicle speeds, weather and climatic conditions. While dust suppression solutions such as sealing unsealed roads or spraying water are effective, they can be costly. In this article, we share our approach to dust control for unsealed roads in different climates, both cost-effectively and sustainably.
The Importance Of Road Dust Control
Dust control on unsealed haul roads is not just a technical consideration; it’s a critical aspect that resonates with a range of environmental, health, safety and economic factors. Unsealed haul roads, though essential for various industries, often come with the unintended consequence of dust generation. The importance of addressing this issue cannot be overstated, as it touches on several key aspects that impact both the immediate and long-term well-being of communities and ecosystems.
Unchecked dust emissions from unsealed haul roads can have detrimental effects on the environment and pose health risks for workers and nearby communities. Moreover, reduced air quality due to dust clouds can exacerbate pre-existing respiratory conditions and compromise the overall well-being of individuals living and working in the vicinity.
But dust particles aren’t just a nuisance in the air; they also contribute to road surface deterioration and can disrupt industrial operations.
Dust control on unsealed haul roads represents a balanced approach that considers the co-existence of industry, environment and community. By adopting effective dust control measures, we can mitigate the negative impact of dust emissions, ensuring healthier surroundings, safer roads and sustainable operations. Innovative solutions, like those offered by companies such as Erizon, play a pivotal role in achieving these goals, contributing to a future where the benefits of unsealed haul roads can be harnessed without compromising on other vital aspects of our lives.
How Different Climates Affect The Dust Suppression Method
The challenge of dust suppression on unsealed roads is not confined solely to the roads themselves; it extends to the dynamic interplay between climate conditions and effective dust control methods. The efficacy of dust suppression techniques can be significantly influenced by the distinct climates in which these roads exist. Understanding how different climates impact the choice and effectiveness of dust suppression methods is essential for devising tailored strategies that ensure optimal results across a range of environmental contexts.
Arid and Desert Climates: Dust suppression faces unique challenges in areas characterised by low rainfall and high temperatures. Water-based methods can be less effective due to rapid evaporation. The scarcity of water resources in these regions may also necessitate alternative approaches that minimise water usage. Polymer-based solutions and dust control agents that adhere to road surfaces can prove to be more effective in conserving water while offering extended dust control.
Humid and Tropical Climates: Frequent rain events can naturally dampen road surfaces and reduce dust, but the high levels of humidity can impede the effectiveness of certain dust control agents. In these areas, the focus may shift towards solutions that enhance road surface cohesion, preventing excessive runoff while maintaining optimal dust control during drier periods.
Cold and Freezing Climates: Water-based methods become complex as freezing can lead to icy road surfaces, compromising traction and safety. Here, road managers may need to explore freeze-resistant additives or alternative dust suppression techniques that can effectively tackle dust without creating hazardous conditions.
Temperate Climates: Temperate climates, with moderate rainfall and varied temperature ranges, offer more flexibility in selecting dust suppression methods. A combination of water-based solutions, dust control agents and road grading may be employed to maintain optimal dust control year-round.
Effective dust suppression requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between climatic factors and dust control techniques. This serves as the foundation for developing adaptive strategies that keep unsealed roads clear, safe and environmentally responsible, regardless of the climate they encounter.
Traditional Methods Of Suppressing Dust On Roads
Following are some of the preventative measures that help keep airborne dust to a minimum:
Reduce Vehicle Speeds
Dust can be reduced by establishing speed limits, but this method can negatively impact operational efficiency. Many companies combine the application of dust control products with the setting of speed limits, so vehicles can still move faster than they would on unsealed roads.
Add Moisture To The Surface
Another traditional dust control method is the watering of road surfaces. The difficulty with this method is that the effect is only short-term, especially in hot, arid locations where the water evaporates more quickly. Consequently, it takes a lot of water and time to maintain because it’s most effective when the water is applied frequently.
Place Windbreaks
Linear plantings or fences can also be strategically placed to reduce the impact of wind and prevent dust lift-off. Although windbreaks are typically used on farmlands, they can also be used on industrial sites prone to high winds.
The Best Dust Control Product For Unsealed Trafficked Areas
RoadBond is a non-corrosive, environmentally friendly product scientifically developed by Erizon to eliminate dust on unsealed road surfaces. With its superabsorbent polymers that draw moisture from the air, this dust suppression solution creates a durable protective layer that is resistant to traffic wear and the erosive impacts of wind and water.
It has been extensively tested and proven to withstand the harsh site conditions of those operating in the mining, resource and infrastructure industries. However, because climatic conditions are such a significant factor and there are localised climates and seasonal changes throughout the year to be taken into consideration, we have designed two product variants of RoadBond.
Dust Control Product For Dry, Arid Climates
For unsealed and ungraded roads in dry, arid conditions where fine dust is a more serious issue, RoadBond Li can suppress dust effectively and improve stability. This variant is a naturally derived, biopolymer solution sourced from the wood pulping industry with a neutral pH close to 7.
This means the product is non-corrosive, has a relatively low impact on infrastructure, and is environmentally friendly. It can be applied at lower dosages for effective dust control and at higher dosages for both dust suppression and road stabilisation.
Dust Control Product For Wet Conditions
RoadBond Mg is specifically designed to tackle dust suppression in wet conditions. It forms a robust bond with road aggregates, creating a durable surface that resists erosion caused by rain and moisture. RoadBond Mg ensures that dust is effectively suppressed without compromising road integrity or environmental sustainability.
It comes in liquid form and can be applied directly onto the surface or while grading. For dust control purposes, a single litre per square metre may be sufficient, but if you’re aiming for road stabilisation, up to two litres per square metre are necessary.
Similarly, no curing time is necessary, and immediate results can be witnessed.
With RoadBond Mg, dust suppression becomes a viable and efficient endeavour, promoting safe travel, road stability and harmonious coexistence with the natural environment.
Applying Dust Control Solution Using Your Own Equipment
Erizon offers a flexible approach that empowers customers to take control of their dust suppression efforts. With the ability to supply Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBC) directly to your unsealed haul road areas, Erizon enables you to seamlessly apply our advanced dust control solutions using your own equipment.
Get A Tailored Dust Suppression Solution
When it comes to dust suppression, a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. As Australia’s leading environmental solutions provider, we are experts in planning and implementing dust control solutions tailored specifically to your site’s needs.
So, whether you’re operating in the mining, resource or infrastructure industries, our team can help you choose the right product, plan the timing of the application and monitor results.
Take the first step in solving your dust control problem—get in touch with Erizon today!
