Archive · 3 Dec 2025
Chemical Suppressants More Effective Than Water for Dust Control
A study found that chemical dust suppressants are better than water at reducing dust on roads.
The chemicals can keep dust down for about six hours, while water only works for a few minutes.
However, chemicals can be harmful if not used carefully.
Experts say chemicals should be used in places with little traffic or movement.
Water is still used more because it's safer and easier to apply.
The study was done in Delhi to see how well chemicals work at construction sites.
Both methods have their pros and cons, but chemicals are more effective in the short term.
Chemical dust suppressants are 50-60% effective, compared to water's 25-30% effectiveness.
Chemical suppressants last about six hours, while water's effect lasts only 10-15 minutes.
Chemical suppressants are not widely used due to concerns about public health and environmental impact.
Water is preferred for its ease of use and lower cost, but its effectiveness is short-lived.
Experts recommend using chemical suppressants only in areas with minimal disturbance and regular monitoring.
- Who
- Enviro Policy Research India (EPRI) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI)
- What
- A study on the effectiveness of chemical dust suppressants versus water for dust control
- When
- The study was commissioned in 2018, with trials conducted between October to December 2018
- Where
- Delhi, at Sarai Kale Khan, a DDA construction site in Narela, and the Dilshad Garden flyover stretch
- Why
- To evaluate the performance of chemical suppressants in reducing particulate matter and dust pollution
- Study Conducted By
- Enviro Policy Research India (EPRI) and National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI)
- Study Commissioned By
- Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
- Study Cost
- Rs 2.97 lakh
- Efficacy of Chemical Suppressants
- 50-60%
- Efficacy of Water
- 25-30%
- Duration of Effectiveness (Chemical)
- 6 hours
- Duration of Effectiveness (Water)
- 10-15 minutes
- Cost Comparison (6 hours)
- Water: Rs 2,160, Chemical: Rs 100