Desalt Innovation Middle East LLC (DIME) has introduced hydrophobic sand or "water proofed" sand. DIME has exclusive rights from a chemical manufacturer in Germany to produce the sand, by the addition of an additive SP-HFS 1609 by a specially developed mixer. The hydrophobic sand can be used in multiple applications ranging from landscaping to water proofing building foundations. In gardening, mixing in hydrophobic sand can allow potted plant roots to breathe even when watered over. Protection of under ground cables, utilities, and building foundations from the action of salt laden water, groundwater seepage, and water damage can be undertaken by providing a buffer zone of the hydrophobic sand. Using the HST Roll renders lake features used in landscaping immune to seepage loss, or tearing of liner due to sharp object interaction. Hydrophobic sand and HST rolls can also be used on play grounds and golf courses to avoid muddying in the event of rains. The hydrophobic sand does not allow water molecules to pass through yet allows oil to do so and can help in removing oil contamination. The product soaks up oil from contaminated areas, also can be used to prevent leakage of oil from pipelines, a layer of the hydrophobic soil laid under the region of interest absorbs the contaminants and protects the groundwater below. HST rolls can protect against underwashing in artificial land reclamation and in open waters. Sandbags filled with hydrophobic sand can act as an ideal levee as it does not allow the seep through of water. The Federal Environment Agency (FEA) in Berlin has approved Hydrophobic Sand as being environmentally safe. The product comes with a 30 year guarantee for its hydrophobic effect. Read more about this product here: Hydrophobic Sand!
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