Chemical Treatment Helps Control Roots

Root control, eliminating root intrusion in sewer and storm lines, is an ongoing problem for cities across the country. Root growth is a continual process, but usually is concentrated in the fall and winter when foliage is dormant. Problems occur as smaller roots work their way into tiny cracks, then continue growing and expanding to exert enough force to damage or destroy the pipe. Once roots reach the rich source of water and food found in sewers, they can fill a pipe and shut off water flow, or form a strainer to catch solids.

One solution to the problem involves using a chemical control system such as RootX, which uses the core chemical dichlorobenzonitrile, along with surfactants, to kill roots in sewer and storm lines. The product is simple to apply and does not require specialized equipment or special certification. It has been approved by the Environmental Protection Agency for use in service laterals, main lines and storm lines.

Farmers have been using dichlorobenzonitrile for years to clear away harvested crop remnants or as an aquatic herbicide to control vegetation in ponds. It's non-systemic, so it leaves trees and plants unharmed. The herbicide has no negative effect on the surrounding environment and will not harm treatment plants.

The foaming formula of RootX fills the pipe to overcome gravity and deliver the herbicide up high and throughout the pipe. With a degreasing agent included, additional grime is stripped away and the herbicide penetrates the protective layer of grease on roots. The foam breaks down rapidly after application, so it's not toxic to the fungus and bacteria needed to accelerate the removal of the destroyed roots. It also will inhibit root regrowth.

How It Works

RootX is a dry powdered formula that creates foam when it comes in contact with water. It can be applied directly from the package or with any standard pipeline maintenance equipment. Application time usually takes 10 to 20 minutes and the drain can be used after a 60-minute chemical contact time. Application can be handled by existing crews, using existing equipment, without the need for a specialized outside contractor.

A vacuum system can be used to apply the herbicide in lines up to 8 inches in diameter. For lines from 8-48 inches in diameter, the company offers an application device, the FDU 100. The FDU is filled with a 20-pound bag of RootX and attached to a jetter truck hose at the upstream manhole. When the hose is filled with water the applicator fills the pipe with foam, and continues to disperse the foam as the jetter hose is pulled through the line.

With the vacuum method, a standard jetter nozzle inserted into the downstream manhole creates a vacuum, then the herbicide is poured into the upstream manhole. The vacuum created by turning the jetter nozzle on draws the root-killing foam down the pipe, coating the roots and pipe walls.

RootX was introduced in 1995 by General Chemical Company, based in Salem, Ore., and is now supplied to more than 2000 municipalities and drain cleaners nationwide. The company provides its pre-packaged, ready-to-use product in 2 pound and 4 pound jars and 40 pound boxes.