Development of an eco-friendly dust suppressant based on modified pectin: experimental and theoretical investigations

This study aims to develop eco-friendly composite dust suppressants to mitigate the adverse impact of coal mine dust on worker health and the environment. An environmentally friendly dust suppressant with bonding and wetting effects was prepared by combining modified pectin as a binder and a non-toxic surfactant as a wetting agent. Optimal ratios of sodium carboxylate ethoxylate sulfate (LMES), isomeric alcohol ethoxylate (XL-70), and modified pectin were determined through experiments. The modified pectin exhibited stronger wetting properties on coal powder due to its increased hydrophilicity. Wetting performance tests confirmed its excellent performance. Film-forming and scanning electron microscope tests demonstrated the dust suppressant's ability to bond with coal dust, resulting in a smooth surface and closely connected particles. Environmental tests showed its non-toxicity and degradability. Spraying dust reduction tests revealed a significant average increase of 40.51 % in dust reduction rate compared to water spraying, effectively lowering dust concentration. These findings have practical implications for the development of eco-friendly composite dust suppressants and controlling underground dust in coal mines, benefiting worker health and environmental sustainability.