Dust Control (PM10) in Cities and Motorways

As air regulations in Europe and the rest of the world become increasingly stringent, the question of how to solve dust problems becomes more important. New European legislation is setting standards for the levels of fine dust particles (PM10) in the air. Exceeding these levels can have enormous consequences - closing of motorways or construction sites is no longer a theoretical threat but a real possibility.

The Solution

Spraying magnesium chloride (MgCl2) or calcium chloride (CaCl2) solution with available winter maintenance equipment will result in a substantial reduction of the fine-dust concentrations. In Europe several projects have been set up with the aim of reducing the levels of PM10 in cities and along motorways by using magnesium chloride or calcium chloride. In Norway the cities of Trondheim and Oslo are spraying magnesium chloride to prevent the dust from swirling, resulting in a significant reduction of PM10 levels. Under the auspices of the Dutch Ministry of Traffic, a pilot project was started in the Netherlands, in which a calcium chloride solution was sprayed to reduce swirling fine dust along motorways. The results are a very positive showing a reduction of more than 50% in dust concentrations.

Advantages:

• Reduction in dust concentrations
• Reduction of the PM10 levels
• Reduction of dust related health risks
• Cleaner air