Topical Unpaved Road Stabilization - Dease Lake, British Columbia, Canada
Topical Unpaved Road Stabilization
Dease Lake • British Columbia, Canada
Project Description: A remote section of road in Northern British Columbia was treated with a topical seal coat for dust control and wear course stabilization.
Project Objectives: The objective of this application was to reduce fines migration from the compacted base road, reduce maintenance and resurfacing work to remove potholes, reduce re-gravelling due to loss of material, and reduce fugitive dust emissions. Past maintenance practice involved the use of calcium and magnesium chloride for surface stabilization and dust control. Both calcium chloride and magnesium chloride are water soluble and the wet northern climate caused the surface to become slick during rain and fines to wash out causing rutting and loss of material. T-PRO® 500 was tested as a chlorides alternative to improve function and decrease overall maintenance. Shortly after the application, the local road maintenance contractor noticed a pronounced increase in road density, improved ride quality and less surface degradation compared to the sections previously treated with chlorides. The treated section also did not require maintenance after a heavy rain period which occurred shortly after construction.
Equipment Used: Grader, Water Truck with Spray Bar, Smooth Drum Roller.
Application Specifications: Topical application at a coverage rate of 130 ft²/gallon.
Maintenance Requirements: Removal of loose material from surface and topical re-application of polymer seal coat at a coverage rate of 150 to 180 ft²/gallon.