Dust Emission Characterization and Suppression Strategies at Open Storage Yards of Coal and Ore Terminals

Abstract

Open storage yards at coal and ore terminals are major sources of fugitive dust emissions that contribute to atmospheric pollution, material loss, occupational health hazards, and environmental degradation in surrounding areas. Effective characterization and suppression of particulate emissions are therefore essential for sustainable bulk material handling and regulatory compliance. The present study investigates dust emission characteristics and suppression strategies at open storage yards handling coal and ore materials under varying environmental and operational conditions. The research focuses on evaluating particulate generation mechanisms, emission dispersion behavior, meteorological influences, and the effectiveness of dust control technologies associated with bulk storage operations. Experimental analysis was conducted to examine the influence of wind velocity, moisture content, particle size distribution, storage pile geometry, material handling activities, and climatic conditions on dust emission intensity and airborne particulate concentration. Results demonstrate that wind erosion and mechanical disturbance during loading, unloading, and transportation significantly increase fugitive dust generation from exposed material surfaces. The study further reveals that optimized dust suppression techniques, including water spraying, chemical stabilizers, wind barriers, surface crusting agents, and vegetation shielding, substantially reduce particulate dispersion and improve air quality conditions around storage facilities. Comparative assessment with uncontrolled storage conditions confirms the advantages of integrated dust management systems in minimizing particulate emissions and reducing environmental impact.