Which grade for which step?
Each row lists the first grade we suggest for a trial, the values that matter on its technical data sheet, and an alternative.
| Process step | What the additive does | First choice | Key TDS values | Alternative |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Haul road and unpaved road dust | Wets and binds surface fines so they stay on the road | Calcium lignosulfonate dust control liquid | Solids 45–55%; lignosulfonate 45% min (liquid basis); pH 4.0–7.0; water-insoluble matter 1.0% max | Sodium lignosulfonate dust control liquid (solids 45% min, lignosulfonate 50% min dry basis, Brix 50% min) |
| Stockpile and yard dust | Crusts the surface of stored ore, coal or tailings | Calcium lignosulfonate dust control grade (powder) | Dry matter 95% min; lignosulfonate 55% min; water-insoluble matter 1.0% max; moisture 5.0% max | Dust control liquid where a tank and spray rig are already on site |
| Pellet and briquette binding | Gives green strength to agglomerated fines before drying or firing | Sodium lignosulfonate binder grade | Dry matter 95% min; lignosulfonate 55% min (dry basis); water-insoluble matter 1.5% max; Ca & Mg 0.5% max | Calcium lignosulfonate where calcium in the product is acceptable |
| Mineral slurry dispersion | Keeps fine particles apart and lowers slurry viscosity | Sodium lignosulfonate dispersant grade | Lignosulfonate 70% min (dry basis); water-insoluble matter 0.5% max; Ca & Mg 0.5% max | Dispersant NNO Grade A (disperse power 95% min, sodium sulfate 5% max) |
Values are from the current TDS of each grade. Batch results are stated on the COA supplied with each shipment.
How to choose between grades
Liquid or powder?
Liquid grades arrive at 45–55% solids and only need dilution. Powder grades carry 95% dry matter, so you ship roughly half the weight for the same active amount, but you need a mixing tank on site. Remote mines often choose powder for freight; large operations with spray trucks usually choose liquid.
Calcium or sodium?
Calcium grades contain 5–8% total calcium and magnesium (as sulfate). Sodium grades are held to 0.5% max. Where calcium is a problem in your process water or slurry chemistry, use a sodium grade.
Lignosulfonate or NNO for slurry?
Lignosulfonate is a lignin-based polymer from wood pulping; NNO is a synthetic naphthalene sulfonate condensate with a disperse power value specified on the TDS. Run both on your own slurry and compare viscosity at equal dry dosage.
What to send us for a grade recommendation
- Material type (ore, coal, tailings, concentrate) and particle size
- Moisture of the material and of the road surface
- Water quality on site (hardness, salinity)
- Target: dust reduction, green strength or slurry viscosity
- Application method: spray truck, dosing pump, mixer or pelletizer
- Expected monthly volume and preferred packing (IBC, flexitank, 25 kg bags, jumbo bags)
Related application guides
Frequently asked questions
Which lignosulfonate is used for mine haul road dust control?
Usually a calcium lignosulfonate dust control liquid (solids 45–55%, lignosulfonate 45% min on liquid basis, pH 4.0–7.0). A sodium dust control liquid is the alternative where calcium is not wanted.
Can the same grade bind pellets and control dust?
They are normally different grades. Binder grades are specified for dry matter, lignosulfonate content and low insolubles; dust control grades are specified as ready-to-spray liquids or soluble powders. Ask for the TDS of each before choosing one grade for both jobs.
How is the dosage set?
By a site or laboratory trial on your own material. Dosage depends on particle size, moisture, traffic and the strength you need, so we do not publish one fixed rate.
What documents come with an order?
The current TDS and SDS for the grade, and a COA for each shipment.
Ask for TDS, SDS and a grade recommendation
Send your process details and we will reply with the grades to trial and their documents.
Last reviewed 27 October 2026. Specifications from Green Agrochem technical data sheets.