Research in Progress- Sustainable dust suppressants on gravel roads may reduce health and environmental impacts - TR-813

(2023) Research in Progress- Sustainable dust suppressants on gravel roads may reduce health and environmental impacts - TR-813. Transportation, Department of

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Abstract

As vehicles and other heavy equipment travel along Iowa's gravel roads, the loose aggregates on the surface are often crushed and released into the air as fine particulates, or “fugitive dust.” This action not only reduces the amount of material on the roads and causes potholes and ruts to form prematurely, but the airborne dust can lower drivers’ visibility and pose a serious health threat to road users and those living and working in the vicinity. To combat the problem, chlorides are often applied to gravel roads to stabilize the aggregates and minimize the amount of dust they release into the air. However, these products are costly and corrosive, and can contaminate the fertile soils and waterways nearby. To find a lower-cost and more environmentally friendly alternative, the Iowa Highway Research Board has launched a research project to identify potentially viable dust suppressant options and test them under real-world conditions.