Why Do Road Dust Control Chemicals Work Well?

Why do road dust control chemicals work well? What's the science behind their effectiveness? Environmental Products & Applications, Inc., experts in soil stabilization, knows a thing or two about effective road dust control products. In this article, we'll break down the key components and processes that make these products work well.

The Ins and Outs Around Road Dust

When it's blowing around your work site, it's hard to think about what makes up road dust. But those finely ground particles consist of more than just dirt. They also include pollen, soot, tire fragments, and other contaminants dispersed into the air by traffic and weather conditions.  Effective chemical dust control strategies focus on binding these particles to prevent them from becoming airborne.

Types of Road Dust Control Chemicals

Several dust control chemicals are used to stabilize soils and suppress dust. Let’s explore some of the most common ones.

Chlorides

Chlorides include road dust control chemicals such as calcium chloride and magnesium chloride. These chemicals absorb moisture from the air, keeping road surfaces wet and preventing dust from escaping. While chlorides are highly effective and relatively affordable, they can corrode metal machinery and pollute local waterways.

Petroleum Binders

Petroleum binders work by coating dust particles and binding them to form a type of crust on top of a road surface. These dust control chemicals are durable and work well in areas with heavy traffic. There can be a few environmental concerns about using petroleum binders, as they can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and contribute to air pollution.

Polymer-Based Products

Polymer-based dust control methods, such as our line of Envirotac acrylic polymer products, are popular due to their long-lasting nature. These synthetic products create a flexible, durable film over unpaved roadways and dust particles, reducing the need for frequent reapplication. They are also environmentally friendly and won't contaminate waterways or harm wildlife.

What is the science behind these chemicals?

Ultimately, these dust control products work well by tackling two fundamental processes: binding particles together or absorbing moisture. Both of these methods prevent the particles from becoming airborne and creating dust. Chemical reactions in these products form a crust or film that holds particles together, preventing them from easily breaking apart and becoming airborne. Additionally, the moisture absorption properties of some chemicals keep dust particles damp, making it difficult for them to be released into the air.

Conclusion

Once you understand the science behind road dust control chemicals, it's easy to see why they are so effective. By understanding how these chemicals work to prevent aggregate dust on your construction site, you can make an informed choice about which is best for your project.

At Environmental Products & Applications, Inc., we offer a range of effective and environmentally friendly soil stabilization and dust control products. Contact us today to learn more about our Envirotac line of products and how they can keep your construction site dust-free.