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Dust Control

Product News Tuesday, September 15, 2009: Soil and Dust Solutions (Pty) Ltd

Soil & Dust Solutions has devised a specific product formula and application method for the specialized and challenging problem of effective dust control on mine tailings.

A Mine Tailing complex presents a number of challenges in terms of effective dust control which include:
Access, Stability, Safety, Effected Neighbouring Communities, Cost, Water Consumption and Environmental Factors.

The Tailings complex at Eastplats Mine (Barplats Limited) covers an area of 82,500 m². In order to meet the objective which was complete dust control of the tailings and surrounding areas the team at Soil & Dust Solutions conducted an in-depth site assessment taking numerous factors into consideration which included: Wind direction; Height and Position of Tailings; Location of local community; Environmental Factors as well as Accessibility. Upon final assessment and discussions with on-site management, it was decided to treat the sides and top of the tailings.

A topical application offers the most effective solution for dust control on Mine Tailings. The fact the product is safe and easy to apply and only needs to be applied every 18-24 months makes it the ideal solution. This allows for effective dust control without costly irrigation systems which require intense and expensive maintenance, as well as continued use of water. Our method also allows for a safer area, as continual water usage leads to sinkhole development which can be highly dangerous.

Soil & Dust Solutions was also contracted to devise and set up the application process. This involved the special design of a industrial grade spray bar which could be attached to an Excavator in order to apply the product, as no tracked vehicles could access the berms.

The product was diluted and applied at an application rate of .15 litres per square meter starting at the top of the tailings and working down the sides. At this rate an area of approximately 5,000 to 6,500 m² per day can be covered.

The treated areas were monitored on a monthly basis, and after each interval the treated areas showed no signs of erosion and the crust created continues to suppress the dust even after 12 months during which there was a significant amount of rainfall.

Our website has a detailed Project Profile on this specific completed project of Mine Tailings dust control at Eastplats, as well as a number of additional project profiles.
See our website for more information at www.soilsolutions.com

Soil & Dust Solutions Pty Limited

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Call us today for a site assessment and effective dust control solutions +27 11 460-0981