Bentonite treatment for economical dust reduction on limestone surfaced secondary roads

Abstract

In this project, research was conducted to evaluate higher percentages of bentonite as a dust palliative on crushed limestone surfaced secondary roads in Iowa. Each percentage of bentonite was field evaluated with respect to dust generation, crust development, and roughness. Gradation analysis, scanning electron microscopy, x-ray fluorescence, x-ray diffraction, and thermogravimetric analysis were used in the lab to evaluate the presence of bentonite. During construction and field testing, a video recorder was used to assist with documentation and qualitative evaluation. The results from this project indicate that bentonite is an effective dust palliative. The recommendations from that study suggested that higher percentages of bentonite treatments be further researched. ·