AN INNOVATIVE new long-term, all-weather stabiliser and dust suppressant for new and existing pavements, Shield AWR, has been developed by leading Australian fine particle management specialists Reynolds Soil Technologies (RST Solutions).

RST Solutions, a global market leader in providing innovative, technologically advanced solutions that deliver proven results, is internationally recognised as a specialist in the field of dust control.

The most recent product to emerge from RST Solutions’ ongoing research and development programs, Shield AWR can be applied as a topical solution for dust suppression or a blended solution for dust suppression and stabilisation.

Shield AWR delivers a non-slippery surface that requires minimal ongoing maintenance through its unique blend of nano-particles and leading edge dispersing technology, which allows for better material penetration, blending and contraction, delivering minimal to zero surface fines loss.

Application of Shield AWR increases the structural integrity and longevity of gravels used in all civil construction and reduces material permeability, protecting sub-grade material.

Once applied, Shield AWR optimises the compaction and workability of gravels using less water, with reduced continual watering cycles required for dust suppression.

Shield AWR improves the road running surface in all climatic conditions, maintains structural integrity in high and low moisture environments, and prevents frost heave affecting material in cold climates.

Shield AWR can also be applied to existing pavements to rejuvenate them and make them dust-free.

The Shield AWR solution does not require any special application equipment and is supplied as a free-flowing, non-hazardous, eco-friendly liquid that is diluted into water carts and applied to roads, airstrips, hardstand areas and walkways.

RST Solutions operations and technical director David Handel said Shield AWR was developed after on-site consultation with several clients identified the need for a dual-action stabiliser and dust suppressant to delivering operational optimisation and increase site safety.

“Our team of industry experts goes out into the field with clients to get a thorough understanding of the challenges they face and the common theme of feedback is that our clients need smart, simple and cost effective solutions,” Mr Handel said.

“Shield AWR has been designed to be a long-term, all-weather solution that leaves a safe, non-slippery surface while being easy to use and low maintenance, with no special equipment required for application and fewer watering cycles required for ongoing dust suppression,” he said.

“Shield AWR was recently trialled in Queensland and New South Wales to stabilise pavements and suppress dust lift-off, with both projects successfully achieving positive feedback from clients.

“The trial in regional New South Wales was conducted on an extremely dusty unpaved road which was compacted and topically treated with Shield AWR.

“Straight after the application of Shield AWR, zero dust generation was observed on the trial section with traffic speeds up to 70km/h and two months after the application very little dust generation was observed.

“The trial in North Queensland was conducted on the unsealed areas of an event staging area which needed to remain sealed for at least three weeks, with application completed within a three day window under wet weather conditions.

“After application dust emissions were reduced to minimal levels and the client was very satisfied with the outcome, especially considering the challenging conditions.

“We understand that every client’s operational challenges and environmental conditions are different and our team can tailor any of the products in RST Solutions’ broad range of solutions and can create services and packages to meet each client’s individual needs.

“We offer our clients on and off-site training and support to ensure our recommendations are followed through to ensure a successful solution.”

RST Solutions has more than 26 years of experience specialising in total dust management, soil stabilisation and erosion control, watering and agricultural solutions for mining, civil, quarrying and construction sites in Australia and overseas.

The company’s head office is based at Burleigh Heads, Queensland with an additional office in Carlisle, Western Australia.

RST Solutions international operations extend to regions including South and North America, Africa, Asia and Oceania.

For more information please contact Reynolds Soil Technologies (RST Solutions) on (07) 5317 1080 or visit www.rstsolutions.com.au