HydroTac

An organic lignosulphonate based road binder offering superior dust control results

HydroTac is a specially formulated biodegradable binder that can be used on haul roads, access roads and other exposed surfaces as a spray-on dust control treatment.
Totally organic, it has no corrosive chloride compounds and is environmentally friendly and readily biodegradable.

Working as a hygroscopic crusting agent, this lignosulphonate based dust control product helps mines to reduce water bowser usage for dust control purposes and has been shown to reduce water cart operating hours by up to 80%, reducing road maintenance, regular replenishment of surface wearing course material and the likelihood of a vehicle losing control as a result of over-watering.

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Product Overview

Lignosulphonates are by-products from sulphite paper and timber making processes in which sulfonated lignin, a polymer built up of phenyl propane subunits, is dispersed in an aqueous solution. The binding properties of lignin are enhanced by the addition of sugars which helps bind surface road and dust particles together. Water evaporates from the lignosulphonate as it dries and the dust particles are trapped by the high-viscosity, naturally sticky material.

Applications

  • Haul roads

  • Civil works

  • Laydown / yards

  • Material Handling

  • Erosion control

  • Veneering

  • Water management

Key Benefits

  • Operational dust reductions up to 90%, improving safety and productivity with faster cycle times.
  • Operational dust reductions by effective controlling airborne dust.
  • Safer and healthier working environments with cleaner air and improved visibility.
  • Typical water savings of 50% to 60%, and up to 80%, reducing environmental impacts.
  • Improved wet-weather trafficability due to faster road drying times.
  • Reduced need for equipment and maintenance, saving on fuel, labour, and maintenance costs.
  • Reduced sediment run-off and surface erosion, maintaining road integrity.
  • minimising environmental impact and surface repair costs.
  • Minimisation of visible dust clouds, preventing it from spreading off-site.

How to apply HydroTac

HydroTac is a versatile product that is easy to handle and apply without any specialised equipment required. In order to suppress dust on roads and other surfaces, HydroTac can be applied via a series of light dilutions using water bowsers.

Once applied, the need for reapplication is minimal. Mines which typically rely on continuously spraying untreated water on haul road networks in order to control dust will dramatically reduce water usage and water cart hours by switching to HydroTac.

HydroTac is conveniently delivered in a concentrated liquid form ready to use. It is typically diluted in a water bowser at a concentration of 1.5% up to 20% depending on the specific requirement.

How does HydroTac work?

HydroTac acts as a hygroscopic crusting agent. When applied, it binds surface particles together, forming a crust that suppresses dust. This reduces the need for frequent watering and maintenance.

What is HydroTac made of?

HydroTac is an organic lignosulphonate-based product. Lignosulphonates are by-products from the sulphite paper and timber-making processes, consisting of sulfonated lignin dispersed in an aqueous solution.

Is it a liquid or powder?

HydroTac is delivered in a concentrated liquid form, ready to use.

What makes it different from other dust suppressants?

HydroTac is totally organic, containing no corrosive chloride compounds, making it environmentally friendly and readily biodegradable. It has been shown to reduce water cart operating hours by up to 80%, leading to significant water savings and operational efficiencies.

Can it be used in wet or dry conditions?

HydroTac is versatile and can be applied in various conditions.

What type of equipment is needed to apply it?

HydroTac can be applied using standard water carts. No specialised equipment is required.

Can clients pick it up and apply it themselves?

Yes, HydroTac is easy to handle and apply without any specialised equipment, allowing clients to apply it themselves.

Is it compatible with standard spraying systems?

Yes, HydroTac is compatible with standard water spraying systems used in water carts.

How is it applied to different surfaces?

HydroTac is applied via a series of light dilutions using water carts, spraying it onto the target surfaces. The specific application method may vary depending on the surface and requirements.

What is the recommended dilution rate?

HydroTac is typically diluted at a concentration ranging from 1.5% to 20%, depending on the specific requirements.

How much area does a single application cover?

The coverage area of a single application depends on factors such as dilution rate, application method, and surface conditions, size of the vessel.

How long does the application process take?

The duration of the application process depends on the size of the area and the equipment used. Specific timeframes are not provided, as they vary based on factors such as the area size, trafficability, traffic management requirements, and the type of wearing course material.

How long does it last before reapplication is needed?

Once applied, the need for reapplication is minimal. However, the exact timeframe for reapplication depends on factors such as traffic intensity, environmental conditions, trafficability, and other site-specific variables.

Does it withstand heavy traffic?
Yes, HydroTac is designed for use on haul roads and access roads, and it can withstand heavy traffic.
How does it work with different materials?
HydroTac binds surface road and dust particles together, forming a crust that effectively suppresses dust. Its performance may vary depending on the material used, but it is compatible with different materials and tends to be more effective with finer rock particles.
What are the expected results after application?
Expected results include operational dust reductions, water savings of up to 80%, safer roads due to improved visibility, and operational cost savings with reduced road maintenance.
Is it environmentally friendly?

Yes, HydroTac is environmentally friendly and readily biodegradable.

Does it comply with local environmental regulations?
Yes, HydroTac is environmentally friendly and readily biodegradable.
Is it safe for use near water bodies?
HydroTac is totally organic and has no corrosive chloride compounds, suggesting it is safe for use near water bodies.
Does it contain any toxic substances?
HydroTac is described as totally organic and environmentally friendly, and it does not contain toxic substances.
Does it require special storage conditions?
Best stored in a cool, dry place.
How often should it be reapplied in high-use areas?
Depends on trafficability, asset type, and site conditions.
Does it interact negatively with any existing ground treatments?
Unlikely
Can it be used year-round, or does it have seasonal limitations?
Usage may be lower during wet weather periods.
What type of equipment is needed to apply it?

HydroTac can be applied using standard water carts. No specialised equipment is required.

Can clients pick it up and apply it themselves?

Yes, HydroTac is easy to handle and apply without any specialised equipment, allowing clients to apply it themselves.

Is it compatible with standard spraying systems?

Yes, HydroTac is compatible with standard water spraying systems used in water carts.

How is it applied to different surfaces?

HydroTac is applied via a series of light dilutions using water carts, spraying it onto the target surfaces. The specific application method may vary depending on the surface and requirements.

What is the recommended dilution rate?

HydroTac is typically diluted at a concentration ranging from 1.5% to 20%, depending on the specific requirements.

How much area does a single application cover?

The coverage area of a single application depends on factors such as dilution rate, application method, and surface conditions, size of the vessel.

What type of equipment is needed to apply it?

HydroTac can be applied using standard water carts. No specialised equipment is required.

Does it improve road surface longevity?
Yes
Can it help reduce water usage compared to other dust control methods?
Yes, though the reduction depends on the comparison method. It significantly reduces water use compared to using water alone.
Does it reduce the need for frequent grading or road repairs?
Yes, by stabilising the surface and minimising erosion, leading to less maintenance.
Are there case studies or testimonials from other users?
Yes, we have case studies and testimonials available. Let us know if you'd like more details.

Dust-A-Side Australia packages

Full Service

In addition to having a full time project supervisor on site, Dust-A-Side can also supply clients with required assets and personnel such as trucks, water carts, graders, suppression equipment and operators. Telemetry, consulting, project management and reporting are available with a Full Service package.

Managed Service

A full time project supervisor from Dust-A-Side will attend site to oversee the delivery and implementation of all dust control solutions, utilising the clients existing assets (e.g. water carts). The project supervisor will provide further support through telemetry, consulting, project management and reporting in order to help clients achieve the most efficient and cost effective outcomes possible

Remote Supervision

Provision of a fully self-contained storage and dosing package that requires no tie-in to existing site infrastructure, except a water source. The system includes a bulk storage tank, an unloading pump and a dosing pump, piping, and remote telemetry for monitoring usage and tank levels. It is maintained with monthly site visits, where technicians assess road conditions, manage product logistics, provide reporting on product and water usage, equipment utilisation and inspection, as well as operator training on product application and dust suppression techniques.

Supply Only

Binder products can be supplied in bulk or via intermediate bulk containers. Dust-A-Side will advise clients on how much of the product to apply and how often. Clients then apply the products using their own equipment.

Rental

Dust control equipment such as fog cannons can be rented as required and clients can manage the operation of the equipment.

Product range

We are proud to present an array of practical and innovative solutions.

Backed by Experience

With decades of research and refinement to rely on, Dust-A-Side Australia has everything it takes to provide quantifiable results on every level.

Innovative Formulations

Our binder products include bitumen and polymer based emulsions, as well as organic binders, surfactant technologies and a range of blended products.

Committed to Sustainability

Our goal is to achieve Zero Harm and enhance environmental sustainability. Dust-A-Side binders are biodegradable and help to lower water consumption.

Continued Support

Our technical team will always be on hand to help ensure the success of your dust control strategy.

Contact us

For further information or advice about any of Dust-A-Side Australia’s proven products or services, simply fill out this form and we will get back to you.

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