Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

St. Lawrence College Applied Research and Denchem Surface Solutions of Ottawa, Ontario have engaged in an applied researchpartnership to investigate using organic waste by-products as chemical additions to produce more effective road safety agents.Denchem is interested in reducing the application and re-application rates of products that are primarily sodium-chloride (salt)based. The proposed new product will offer equal or better performance at lower applications rates, reduce corrosion levels andlimit the amount of sodium leached into water tables. The goals of this project are to: 1) identify an improved liquid surfactantaddition to two standard dust suppressants, to develop that will penetrate pavement more thoroughly, while reducing the amountof chemicals used in the process. 2) Identify the optimal concentration of chemical addition of Protek? to liquid de-icers toeffectively improve melting performance and 3) Examine whether spent brewers yeast can be used as a thickener to replace asynthetic addition in liquid de-icing agents.As transportation departments in North America become increasingly more concerned with the amount of surfactants andchemicals used on roads that leach into the water table, a successful collaboration with the college will ensure Denchemsposition to address the surfactant challenges in the future, and solidify its position as the environmental steward and leadinginnovator in surfactant market. As well this project will provide staff and students in the St. Lawrence College environmentalscience program a unique opportunity to apply their education to a commercial application and gain industry related experience..Ontario Centres