Canola oil v. sand: the careful chemistry of dust suppression

“I would say probably by the end of this week it should be all cleared,” Kennedy said.

The canola oil, and later sand, has been applied to the three streets highlighted in red. (Google Maps)

The city applies various dust suppression products to around 35 unpaved roads every year, Kennedy said. In most cases there are no problems, but sometimes the balance between the suppressant and the gravel road isn’t quite right, resulting in a sticky situation like the one on Sixth St. E.

Chemistry is also a factor. Kennedy explained part of the problem that occurred in the Midtown block was that an oil-based suppressant previously applied to the street likely prevented the canola oil from being absorbed fully.

In both cases, the solution is to add more sand on top to soak up any excess product.

Prince Albert began using canola oil as an environmentally-friendly alternative to oil on some streets four years ago.

Kennedy asked Midtown residents to be patient and said when the product fully dries and hardens in three to four weeks, he thinks they’ll be impressed with the results.

“I think the people are really going to love this stuff because it actually turns into pavement, it looks just like it’s pavement,” he said. He added other city roads that have had canola oil applied to them usually last three to four years before another application is needed.

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alison.sandstrom@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alisandstrom

by Alison Sandstrom

Canola oil v. sand: the careful chemistry of dust suppression

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