What is TRANS SEAL I®?
TRANS SEAL I® is a chloride-free alternative to salt-based dust suppressants: a water-based polyvinyl emulsion at 55% solids that dries from white to clear as it binds surface fines into a water-resistant crust 5/8″–1″ thick.
Originally developed as a coal-car topper to stop coal-dust blowback from railcars in transit, it is equally proven on mine haul roads and stockpiles. Its extended performance minimizes watering and maintenance requirements — helping conserve water, lower operating costs, and improve site safety.
Unlike salt-based suppressants (MgCl₂), which depend on pulling moisture from the air, TRANS SEAL I® performs in low-humidity climates.
Technical specifications
| Product type | Water-based polyvinyl emulsion |
|---|---|
| Total solids | 55% |
| pH | 4.5 |
| Dilution — soil stabilization | 1:40 – 1:150 (product : water) |
| Dilution — coal-car topping | 1:11 (product : water) |
| Surface crust | 5/8″ – 1″ thick |
| Minimum application temperature | 57 °F |
| Applicable standard | ASTM D-4317-98 Type III |
| Shelf life | 12 months (store at 32 °F – 90 °F) |
| Appearance | Applies white, dries clear |
Dilution rates per Fluid Tech dilution tables (2023) and the Black Thunder Mine field test. Rates vary by site — request a site-specific recommendation.
How far does one gallon go?
One gallon of TRANS SEAL I® concentrate, diluted for soil stabilization, makes 40–150 gallons of spray — up to 10× farther than typical polymer suppressants, which commonly dilute at 1:3 – 1:4.*
- Soil stabilization: 1 gallon → 40–150 gallons of spray (1:40 – 1:150)
- Coal-car topping: 1 gallon → 11 gallons of spray (1:11)
*Ratios shown product : water. Typical polymer-suppressant dilutions per U.S. Army ERDC evaluation TPD0600002.
Is TRANS SEAL I® toxic?
TRANS SEAL I® has been tested for toxicity twice by independent laboratories. An EPA-protocol fish test showed zero mortality (Aquatic Consulting & Testing, 2002, tested undiluted), and three-species tests at 20:1 field dilution (2025; fathead minnow, Daphnia magna, redworm) found no toxicity.
TRANS SEAL I® is chloride-free — no salts and no salt corrosion on equipment or vehicles.
Where does it work?
- Mine haul roads & coal-car topping
- Rail & open-container hauling
- Unpaved roads
- Construction sites & stockpiles
- Demolition sites
- Military training areas & dirt tarmacs
- Crop & agricultural sites
- Recreation areas
- Solar sites
Field-proven: in the Black Thunder Mine coal-topper field test, TRANS SEAL I® produced 3–6″ of crust penetration and a controlled dust plume in transit.
How is it sold?
TRANS SEAL I® is sold by quote (SKUs TS-275 and TS-5G) — made in the USA, assembled in Tennessee. Fluid Tech scopes the dilution and application rate to your site.
Frequently asked questions
Is TRANS SEAL I® toxic?
TRANS SEAL I® has been tested for toxicity twice by independent laboratories. An EPA-protocol fish test (2002, tested undiluted) showed zero mortality, and three-species tests at 20:1 field dilution (2025) found no toxicity.
What dilution ratio does TRANS SEAL I® use?
1:40 to 1:150 (product : water) for soil stabilization, and 1:11 for coal-car topping. Rates vary by site — Fluid Tech provides site-specific recommendations.
Does TRANS SEAL I® work in dry, low-humidity climates?
Yes. Unlike salt-based suppressants such as magnesium chloride, TRANS SEAL I® does not depend on atmospheric moisture — it binds surface particles into a crust and performs reliably in dry climates.
How is TRANS SEAL I® sold?
By quote, through Fluid Tech LLC — SKUs TS-275 and TS-5G. Made in the USA, assembled in Tennessee. Call (423) 271-6505 or email INFO@FLUIDTECHLLC.COM.
Need long-term dust control?
Tell us about your site and our team will help scope the right dilution and application.
Content reviewed July 2026 · FT-TRANSEAL · Toxicity: EPA-protocol fish test, zero mortality, tested undiluted (Aquatic Consulting & Testing, 2002); independent three-species tests at 20:1 field dilution (2025; fathead minnow, Daphnia magna, redworm) — no toxicity found.