It was while Townsville-based builder Steve Moir was travelling near Biloela that he saw a section of road being treated for dust suppression and stabilisation and had a great idea.
“I thought what if this solution they’re using to seal roads to stop water coming through and creating potholes could be engineered to greatly increase water retention in dams,” Steve said.
“As everybody knows, water – or the lack thereof – is a big issue around the state at present, and if you can get your dam in a state where it won’t seep and then put a bore into it you’ve got good clean water that can be used for irrigation or to water your cattle,” he said.
With this thought in mind Steve approached the manufacturer of the modified product that was being used to spray the road; PMB Techologies Asia based in south-east Queensland.
“They told me the binding agent “with a few secret ingredients” had been mixed with bitumen to resurface that particular stretch of road at “Bilo” about five months ago and it was still holding up well when I was out there.
“I bought some of the product from the company and dug a hole in some river sand in my yard and then lined it with the polymer modified bitumen (PMB).
“The binding process locks the polymer blend into the dam bed like an anchor and it’s about as hard as concrete to tap with your knuckles but due to it’s flexibility it won’t crack like concrete or other products from normal ground movement.”
Steve has also created a mini-dam at his house that has held water well, even though it’s also formed out of river sand which he said you wouldn’t build a real dam out of.
He said the agent will work in any soil type as long is it can be compacted; it’s cheaper than any other methods of sealing dams; it’s non-toxic to marine, airborne, land dwelling and human species; and best of all it’s Australian made.
“The process also has the advantage of being non-labour intensive; all that has to be done is to mix the agent with water and spray it with a water truck on to the internal lining of your dam with a technician present to make sure it’s applied correctly.
“It can also be applied unheated and doesn’t require drying aids or heating elements for curing.”
Steve said the application takes three coats to complete, after which you can start filling 72 hours after curing depending on soil moisture and compaction.
“These levels can be adjusted to account for variances in soil and moisture content as well.
He said its best if the dam is fenced to keep out pigs; kangaroos and other animals from going in for a drink.
“And because of silt buildup and other similar factors it would be better to have a trough nearby.”
Steve said he’s currently looking for someone who might be interested in fixing up a leaking dam on their property that might be willing to give the idea a shot.
If you’re interested in using the product on property and would like more information contact info@pmbtechnologiesasia.com.au and to get in touch with Steve Moir phone: 0414 335 225 or email smoir7@bigpond.com.au
