Technologies and research for reducing dust from roads with gravel surfaces

Abstract

The article examines the distribution of gravel roads throughout the Lithuanian road network and provides a comparative analysis with other European and world countries. The paper reviews modern dust reduction technologies and materials, analyses their technological efficiency and economic feasibility. The study analyses the most commonly used agents: calcium and magnesium chlorides, cambric water, and calcium lignosulfonates. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of these materials in suppressing dust dispersion on gravel roads and to determine their impact on the condition and stability of the road surface. Different road sections with varying traffic intensities were selected for the study in order to determine which substance is the most effective and works best. The results revealed that calcium chloride provides the most stable protection, while the effect of lignosulfonates is short lived and strongly depends on traffic loads. The conclusions of the study confirm that only by properly assessing local hydro meteorological conditions, precipitation levels, and traffic intensity can sustainably dust reduction measures be selected.