Control of particle re-entrainment by wetting the exposed surface of dust samples.

Experiments have been conducted in a wind tunnel to measure the emission factor of re-entrained particles from a dry or wetted dust sample with a smooth or rough surface. Effects of wind velocities and water contents in the sample on the emission factor also were investigated. The results show that re-entrainment of particles can be controlled efficiently in a certain period of time when the surface watering density is between 60 and 80 g/m2 at a wind velocity from 7 to 15 m/sec for both smooth and rough surfaces. After the effective period is elapsed, which depends on wind speeds and environmental conditions, water will eventually evaporate, and re-entrainment starts to occur again. The experimental water evaporation rates at different wind speeds are in good agreement with theoretical values. After watering for 210, 130, and 110 min at average wind velocities of 0, 2, and 4 m/sec, respectively, the dust sample must be replenished with water to avoid dust re-entrainment.