Effective Year-Round Dust Control in Mining with GELSAP

Managing dust in the mining industry is a continuous challenge, extending beyond the dry season into the wet season. Effective dust control during rainy periods requires a deep understanding of the chemistry behind dust suppression solutions, a knowledge that GELSAP is eager to share.

The Importance of Chemical Knowledge in Dust Management

In regions like the Southwest Desert, known for sporadic, heavy rainfalls, the effectiveness of dust control chemicals can be put to the test. These sudden downpours, which can leave the ground dry again within hours or days, require a strategic approach to maintain dust suppression.

During extended dry periods between rains, understanding and optimizing dust control chemistry becomes crucial. By learning how materials behave post-rain, efficient and effective year-round dust management can be achieved. At GELSAP, we prioritize educating our clients and their teams to ensure rain doesn’t disrupt dust suppression efforts.

Beyond Water: Modern Dust Control Solutions

The traditional method of using water for dust control is no longer viable. Water, a scarce and valuable resource, provides only short-term relief from airborne dust. Its use is now regulated and often discouraged due to environmental and cost concerns.

Treated water, while beneficial, is expensive. Whether sourced naturally or from treatment plants, the focus is on finding alternatives, reducing water use, and optimizing its application. For instance, the availability of grey water was a key factor in selecting the site for a major mining project in the Midwest Region, emphasizing the importance of water conservation.

Chemical Dust Control: Efficiency and Longevity

Chemical dust control methods significantly reduce water usage and enhance effectiveness. Understanding the chosen chemistry and managing its application post-rain ensures roads remain dust-suppressed longer.

A typical scenario with water-only dust control involves repeated runs by watercarts, which use vast amounts of water with limited success. In contrast, a road treated with GELSAP’s DustMagTM requires minimal watering and grading, even during the dry season. Post-rain, treated roads may need grading to maintain access but can retain the treated material for continued dust suppression.

Practical Strategies for Chemical Dust Control

After heavy rain, GELSAP recommends a methodical approach to preserve treated materials. Instead of pushing the product off the road, grading to the center retains the treated material, which can be spread back once the surface dries. This process is simple with experience, and GELSAP offers coaching and supervision to ensure optimal results.

Re-spreading the treated material may require light watering or a dilute chemical mix to recharge the surface. Regular maintenance ensures long-lasting dust suppression without the need for frequent reapplications.

Stay Prepared with On-Site Solutions

Having dust control products on-site for quick repairs is cost-effective and prevents the need for complete re-treatment. In the Southwest Desert, where water scarcity is a growing concern, efficient use of dust control chemistries, supported by GELSAP, ensures sustainable and cost-effective dust management year-round.

Building a Science-Based Dust Control Method

Understanding the basic chemistries allows for a tailored dust control approach, utilizing products suited to specific operational requirements and site conditions. GELSAP prioritizes client education and support, ensuring effective dust suppression and long-term sustainability.

Partner with GELSAP for Superior Dust Management

Building a relationship with an industry expert like GELSAP ensures access to knowledge, supervision, and ongoing support. GELSAP is committed to delivering results, saving clients money, and promoting sustainable dust management practices. Contact our team today to learn more.