Secondary Containment Areas for Liquid Fertilizers with SANI-TRED: Ensuring Safety and Environmental Protection
Secondary containment areas are critical components in agricultural and industrial operations where liquid fertilizers and other hazardous chemicals are stored. These containment systems are designed to prevent spills and leaks from contaminating the environment, protecting both human health and the surrounding ecosystem. Given the highly corrosive and hazardous nature of many liquid fertilizers, it is essential to use a robust, durable, and chemically resistant coating system. SANI-TRED offers an advanced solution for secondary containment areas, providing superior protection against chemical damage, leaks, and environmental hazards.
The Importance of Secondary Containment Areas
Secondary containment areas serve as a backup system to primary storage tanks, capturing any spills or leaks that might occur. These areas are particularly important for facilities handling large volumes of liquid fertilizers, as even a minor spill can have significant environmental and financial consequences. Key functions of secondary containment areas include:
1. Environmental Protection
Liquid fertilizers contain high concentrations of nutrients, such as nitrogen and phosphorus, which can cause serious environmental damage if released into soil or water sources. These nutrients can lead to water pollution, algal blooms, and the disruption of aquatic ecosystems. Secondary containment areas prevent such releases, safeguarding the environment.
2. Regulatory Compliance
Regulatory agencies require facilities that store hazardous materials to have adequate secondary containment systems in place. Compliance with these regulations is crucial to avoid fines, legal penalties, and potential shutdowns. Using an effective coating system for containment areas helps ensure that these regulations are met.
3. Safety
Secondary containment areas enhance the safety of workers and the surrounding community by preventing exposure to hazardous chemicals. In the event of a spill, a properly coated containment area can contain the liquid fertilizer, minimizing the risk of injury or contamination.
4. Cost Savings
By preventing leaks and spills, secondary containment areas help avoid costly cleanups, soil remediation, and potential legal liabilities. Investing in a durable and reliable coating system reduces long-term maintenance and repair costs.
Challenges Faced by Secondary Containment Areas
Secondary containment areas are exposed to harsh conditions, including chemical exposure, weather extremes, and physical wear. Some of the primary challenges include:
1. Chemical Exposure
Liquid fertilizers are highly corrosive and can degrade traditional coatings over time. This chemical exposure can lead to cracks, leaks, and the failure of the containment system.
2. Moisture and Water Infiltration
Moisture from rain, groundwater, or spills can penetrate containment areas, leading to corrosion, rust, and structural damage. A waterproof coating is essential to prevent water infiltration and maintain the integrity of the containment system.
3. Abrasion and Physical Wear
Containment areas are subject to physical wear from equipment, vehicle traffic, and the movement of materials. Abrasive damage can compromise the effectiveness of the coating and lead to leaks.
4. Temperature Fluctuations
Extreme temperature changes can cause coatings to expand and contract, leading to cracking and loss of adhesion. A flexible and durable coating is necessary to withstand these fluctuations.
SANI-TRED’s Solution: Advanced Coating System for Secondary Containment Areas
SANI-TRED offers a comprehensive coating system designed to address the unique challenges of secondary containment areas. This system provides superior protection against chemical exposure, moisture, abrasion, and temperature fluctuations, ensuring that containment areas remain effective and compliant. The SANI-TRED system consists of three primary components:
- PermaFlex™: The cornerstone of the SANI-TRED system, PermaFlex™ is a flexible, waterproof membrane that adheres to various surfaces, including concrete, metal, and masonry. PermaFlex™ creates a seamless, durable barrier that resists chemical attack, corrosion, and moisture infiltration.
- LRB (Liquid Rubber Base): LRB is a self-leveling liquid rubber compound used to fill cracks, gaps, and voids in containment area surfaces. This compound ensures a smooth, even surface and provides additional protection in areas prone to wear and chemical exposure.
- TAV (Thickening Activator): TAV is used in combination with LRB to create a thicker, more viscous compound that can be applied to vertical surfaces or used to build up areas that require extra reinforcement.
Application Process: How to Apply SANI-TRED Secondary Containment Areas Coating
Applying SANI-TRED’s Secondary Containment Areas Coating is a straightforward process that can be completed by professionals or experienced facility maintenance teams. Here is an overview of the application process:
Step 1: Surface Preparation
Proper surface preparation is critical to the success of the SANI-TRED system. Begin by thoroughly cleaning the containment area surfaces to remove any dirt, debris, oil, or old coatings. This can be done using a pressure washer, degreaser, and appropriate cleaning tools. If there are any cracks, gaps, or damaged areas, these should be repaired using SANI-TRED’s LRB and TAV products.
Step 2: Application of PermaFlex™
Once the surface is clean and dry, apply a base coat of PermaFlex™ to the entire area. Use a roller, brush, or sprayer to apply the coating evenly, making sure to cover all surfaces, including corners, edges, and transitions between different materials.
Step 3: Crack and Gap Filling with LRB and TAV
For areas with cracks, gaps, or voids, use a mixture of LRB and TAV to fill and level these imperfections. Apply the compound directly into the cracks or gaps, and use a trowel or putty knife to smooth it out. This step is especially important in high-stress areas where impacts, abrasion, or chemical exposure are most likely to occur.
Step 4: Final Coat of PermaFlex™
After the initial coat and any necessary repairs have been completed, apply a final coat of PermaFlex™ to seal the entire surface. This topcoat provides additional protection and ensures a uniform, durable finish that will stand up to the demands of storing liquid fertilizers.
Step 5: Curing and Inspection
Allow the coating to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once cured, inspect the surface for any missed areas or defects. If necessary, apply additional coats to achieve the desired level of protection.
Maintenance and Care for Your Coated Secondary Containment Areas
Once your secondary containment area has been coated with SANI-TRED, ongoing maintenance is minimal, ensuring that your storage solution remains in excellent condition with minimal effort. To maintain the performance and appearance of your coated surfaces:
- Regular Cleaning: Periodically clean the coated surfaces to remove any chemical residue, dirt, or grime. Use a soft brush, mop, or low-pressure wash to clean the surface without damaging the coating.
- Routine Inspections: Perform regular visual inspections of the coated surfaces to check for any signs of damage, wear, or potential issues. Address any concerns promptly to prevent small problems from becoming larger ones.
- Reapply Coating as Needed: Depending on the environmental conditions and the specific use case, you may need to reapply a topcoat of PermaFlex™ every few years to maintain optimal protection.
Conclusion
Secondary containment areas are essential for safeguarding the environment, ensuring regulatory compliance, and protecting valuable resources like liquid fertilizers. With SANI-TRED’s advanced coating system, you can achieve superior protection against chemical exposure, moisture infiltration, and physical wear. This system’s seamless application, flexibility, and durability make it the ideal choice for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of your containment areas. By investing in SANI-TRED, you are choosing a cost-effective, long-lasting solution that will keep your secondary containment areas in top condition for years to come.
