Summary:
During the month of April, the UCD grounds team will be trialling a herbicide free weed management regime.
What is it?
This is a herbicide free solution for controlling unwanted vegetation including weeds, moss, and algae. The process combines hot water and biodegradable foam, made from natural plant oils and sugars, making it safe to use around people, animals and sensitive areas. It can also be used for chewing gum removal, power washing, cleaning of street furniture, signs and for general sanitation.
How does it work?
The active ingredient in the process is the heat in the hot water, the foam simply acts as an insulating blanket over the top of the hot water. Foamstream is applied to vegetation at low pressure and can be used in all weathers. Once it hits the vegetation and covers it, the foam creates a thermal layer and stops the heat from the hot water escaping to the atmosphere, trapping it and holding it directly on the plant for a short period of time. This allows the heat to penetrate the leaf’s waxy outer layer, travel down the stem, and into the roots – killing or severely damaging the plant, causing it to die.
What fuel does it use?
To heat the water, the boiler runs on battery power.
Area / Buildings:
Belfield Campus