Watering dust is a common practice among the many methods used to manage airborne dust in an industrial environment. Water-based surface-active agents or strategically placed atomizing nozzles capture and bring airborne dust particles to the ground. Wetting surfaces is a standard dust control method. Still, it is ineffective, especially during hotter months or in dry regions, since the water evaporates and dust drifts back into the air.
Misting cannons
The misting cannon is an effective dust control technique, as it uses a fine mist, which reduces water consumption. A misting cannon can be used in many outdoor operations, including building sites, construction sites, and landscaping projects.
Despite the effectiveness of misting cannons in controlling dust particles, there are still concerns about the environmental impact. Misting cannons are expensive, and they are not a good long-term solution. A more efficient and environmentally friendly approach is to reduce emissions at the source.
Hydro-seeding
While you may be tempted to use a mechanical agitator to mix the seed in your soil, you should consider the benefits of hydroseeding instead. Most hydroseeders use a mechanical agitator, and this method is the most effective, but there are some exceptions, such as jet agitation systems. Either way, it is essential to follow instructions from Global Road Technology carefully and never skimp on quantity.
A mixture of grass seed, mulch, fertilizer, and water is applied by a hydroseeding truck. Typically, this slurry is colored green to make it easier to spot where the product has been used. Hydro-seeding is also great for mine reclamation, and it is mixed through a mechanical paddle agitation process to create a uniform mix. It will sprout in about two weeks.
Dry applied polymers
Polymer barriers are also an excellent dust control method, but they must be installed properly to be effective. Plastic fencing, burlap, crate walls, hay bales, and solid board fencing are all effective options. In some cases, polymers are applied directly to the soil and mixed with water to create a seal. Although this technique works very well in places with little traffic, it’s only useful in areas where vehicles won’t be present. This technique can be part of a larger dust control plan.
Watering
Watering dampens particles and prevents them from disintegrating into the air. However, water can be a scarce resource and requires reapplication. An eco-friendly, water-based solution to dust control is to use a biopolymer, such as Dustex(r) from Borregaard. These products are environmentally friendly, and their ingredients are derived from sustainable forests.
Barrier protection
A dust control system is critical to protecting your employees, customers, and property. In addition to reducing clean-up time, dust control methods improve visibility, reduce wind erosion, and protect the health of workers and surrounding communities. Dusts can come from several sources, including combustion products, mineral fibers, and air pollution outside the workplace. For the best dust control results, you need to minimize soil loss to less than 5 tons per year.
Barriers made from breathable, non-flammable materials are essential. They should meet standards for airflow resistance, particulate filtration efficiency, and leakage assessment recommendations and be autoclavable. These products should meet or exceed ASTM F3502-21. Once you have established the appropriate barrier system, you’ll be ready to implement it.
Planting vegetation
Planting vegetation in such areas may not be as effective as in others, and the soil may become a source of dust. The best way to combat this problem is to find a supplier that uses environmentally friendly products. For instance, you can try Dustex(r), a lignin-based biopolymer approved by the USDA and made from sustainable forests.
Another method is installing wind barriers or covering fertilizer piles with foliage. Wind barriers are an effective way to keep windblown debris and other dust sources depending on the wind conditions. If your area is heavily wind-swept, the construction activities can cause significant dust. In these cases, wind barriers are a good option. Regardless of your chosen method, plant vegetation as soon as possible to control the dust.
Another method of dust control is to replant barren areas with native vegetation. In addition to planting native vegetation, you should plant gardens or a greenhouse. These will help stabilize the soil and prevent wind erosion. Other methods include applying gravel to roads or spray-on adhesive to mineral soil. Ensure these methods are environmentally safe and don’t harm the environment or plant life. When dust is too much to handle, use dust suppressants.
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