Research phase
Over the past 10 years, a variety
of studies have shown that CTS
can leave behind concentrations of
PAHs rivaling that of a hazardous
waste facility. In short, more than
15 federal, state, university, and
local entities have concluded
that major environmental and
human health concerns are
connected with the use of CTS.
A 2011, a EPA study titled
Assessment of Water Quality
of Runoff from Sealed Asphalt
Surfaces reported concentrations
of PAHs in runoff from CTS
to be as much as 1,000 times
higher than asphalt-based
sealers. Additionally, the report
concludes that the most costeffective option for controlling
PAHs in runoff may be banning
the CTS product altogether.
When Austin passed its ban
in 2005, the city instituted a
rigorous enforcement program,
which included product testing,
community education, and
eventually product removal for
violators. A 2014 USGS study
published in Environmental Science
and Technology examined the
effects of the ban on Austins Lady
Bird Lake. Researchers found a 58
percent decline in PAHs, validating
the efficacy of the ban to reduce the
PAH loads in stormwater runoff.
Contaminants within CTS
have caused fish kills when the
product is inappropriately applied
before a rainstorm. Industry best
management practices dictate
that CTS not be applied within 24
hours of a forecasted rain event.
However, USGS researchers set
out to test industry statements that
CTS presents zero risks after initial
curing and setup. The results of
this test, published in spring of
2015 in the journal Environmental
Science and Technology showed
Source Control
For further information please see the Advertiser Contact List on page 34
Events
Events 2016
January
March
May
August
February
22-24 London, England, UK
2016 World Water-Tech
Investment Summit Adaptive
Solutions For Future Water
Security, Hosted by UK Trade &
Investment and ReThink Events
www.worldwatertech
investment.com
24-27 San Diego, California, USA
Utility Management Conference:
On the Road to the Utilities of
the Future. Organized by Water
Environment Federation
www.wef.org