Effectiveness of Protein and Polysaccharide Biopolymers as Dust Suppressants on Mine Soils: Results from Wind Tunnel and Penetrometer Testing

For the dust control of barren mine soils, protein and polysaccharide biopolymers have recently shown potential as environmentally friendly alternatives to conventional suppressants (e.g., salt brines or petroleum-based products). However, laboratory studies that determine suitable application parameters are required for large-scale field trials. This study performed wind tunnel pocket penetrometer tests investigate erosion penetration resistance treatments with different biopolymer types, concentrations (wt%), rates (L/m2) on two soils. The results demonstrate all significantly enhanced both tested soil type, concentration, rate having a significant effect. Depending type parameter, wind-induced loss ranged from 0.86 423.9 g/m2 (Control = 2645.0 g/m2) medium-grained sand 0.3 225 26,177.0 fine-grained silica sand, reducing increase, until it reached plateau concentration. similar performance, proteins (wheat fava bean protein) must be applied at higher than those polysaccharides (xanthan gum, corn starch, carboxymethylcellulose). Spearman rank correlation revealed moderate-to-strong negative between (g/m2) (N), rendering rapid, low-cost, indirect method evaluating suppressants. research contributes traditional controlling emissions surfaces. Biopolymers biodegradable can sourced regionally relatively low cost, environmental impact expenses associated suppression.