Australian Water Management Review Vol 2 2013 | Page 69

rootfoAm the professionAl’s ChoiCe for prevention of tree root re-growth Rootfoam is a specialty chemical for the prevention of tree root re-growth and entry into sanitary, sullage, septic and storm water sewers following mechanical clearance. Growing plant roots, which invade pipes, are an ongoing and costly element of asset management. Rootfoam is a proven tool, with a long history of use in both preventative and remedial maintenance programs to deliver extended periods of root growth inhibition. The active ingredient dichlobenil acts at the cellular level of plants to inhibit successful cell wall formation, which reduces root re-growth. Dichlobenil is most active at the site of cell division, known as the meristem. Following mechanical pruning, roots will re-grow at the pruned area. By applying Rootfoam to the cut surface, the area of cell division is targeted and root re-growth is disrupted. Experience indicates that due to the residual properties of the product, root re-growth can be successfully limited for an extended period of time. Dichlobenil affects only growing plant tissue, and not plant tissue which is already established. It can therefore be safely used to limit root re-growth into pipes, without damaging the tree, and with minimal impact downstream. Rootfoam can be applied through foam spray application and line soaking; application though foaming is most common. The foam carries the active ingredient to the roof and sidewalls of the line being treated. Rootfoam is deposited on the walls of the pipe when sud-break has occurred. It is critical that the application equipment has been designed for this purpose and the expansion factor of the foaming agent is known at a given pressure so that flow rate and pressure can be maintained. A mixture of Rootfoam, the foaming agent and water are mixed and agitated for the duration of the application to ensure uniform delivery of dichlobenil. Rootfoam’s efficacy is a result of the active ingredient’s mode of action and its delivery to the target site of root re-growth. Rootfoam has a strong affinity for organic matter and will associate with the cut root surface, where it inhibits new cell development. Investigations and experience support Rootfoam’s consistency in providing extended control of root re-growth into lines, above and beyond the effects of mechanical root removal alone. Of the Australian industry and authority approved products for treating root regrowth, Rootfoam contains the highest amount of the active ingredient, dichlobenil. This higher rate of dichlobenil makes the product target specific and provides cost effective and reliable control, with minimal deleterious effects. Rootfoam has a very low mammalian toxicity and when used correctly, does not disrupt the microorganisms of sewerage treatment plants. With operator and public safety and environmental impact being of critical concern in the selection of chemical tools for asset management, Rootfoam continues to provide an economical and effective option. The professionals choice for prevention of tree root re-growth ROOTFOAM WP HERBICIDE ® Rootfoam® WP Herbicide is the professionals choice for the cost effective prevention of tree root re-growth in sewers following mechanical clearance. For more information contact: Chemtura Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 635 743 www.chemturaagrosolutions.com/au ® Rootfoam is a registered trademark of Chemtura Corporation CHA 6691 AustrAliAn wat e r m a n a g e m e nt r e vie w 63