Research on the infiltration law and enhancing application of dust suppressants in powder materials

Dust emissions from open-pit mining pose a significant threat to environmental safety and human health. Currently, the range of dust suppressants used in coal mining is limited, often failing to account for their suitability across various stockpiles. This oversight results in poor infiltration after application, leading to insufficient crust formation and reduced durability. To explore the permeability of dust suppressant solutions in different stockpiles and develop a broader range of suppressants, numerical simulations were conducted to analyze the effects of liquid properties on infiltration rates. The results showed that increased liquid surface tension promotes infiltration, whereas higher solid-liquid contact angles and liquid viscosity inhibit it. Building on these findings, experimental work was undertaken using a water-based polyurethane with strong adhesion and low viscosity, combined with xanthan gum and polyethylene glycol, to optimize the dust suppressant formulation. The optimal binder formulation was found to contain 1.5% water-based polyurethane, 0.2% xanthan gum, and 1% polyethylene glycol. Infiltration experiments revealed distinct infiltration patterns for the dust suppressant solution in both rock and coal dust. The appropriate dosage of surfactants was also determined. The study indicated that surfactants enhance wettability and significantly reduce the solution’s surface tension. For hydrophilic rock dust, moderate surfactant addition improves permeability, while excessive amounts disrupt capillary forces. In contrast, for hydrophobic coal dust, wettability governs infiltration, with surfactants enhancing this property. Based on these findings, dust suppressant solutions suitable for both rock and coal dust were formulated. The formulations demonstrated excellent permeability, consolidation effects, and water resistance, as validated by tests measuring wind erosion resistance, crust strength, and water erosion resistance. <i>Implications</i>: This research examines the efficacy of dust suppressants in various particulate media and the factors influencing penetration performance, offering key insights for industrial and environmental management. As industrialization accelerates, dust generation poses serious risks to health and the environment, highlighting the urgent need for effective suppressants. The study emphasizes a novel aqueous polyurethane binder with strong adhesion and low viscosity.