Laboratory Investigation of Performance and Impacts of Snow and Ice Control Chemicals for Winter Road Service

Abstract

This work evaluated the performance attributes and impacts of several alternative deicers along with traditional chloride-based deicers. Four Strategic Highway Research Program tests were conducted to evaluate the ice melting, ice penetration, and ice undercutting capabilities of the deicers of interest, and also their impact to the freeze-thaw resistance of portland cement concrete. Three additional novel methods were utilized to assess the friction coefficient of deiced concrete surfaces, thermal properties of the deicers, and corrosion effects of deicers to metals. The laboratory data shed light on the complexity and challenges in evaluating various deicers. To facilitate scientifically sound decision-making, the writers propose a systematic approach to integrate the information available regarding various aspects of deicers, and to incorporate agency priorities, which is expected to aid agencies in selecting or formulating their snow and ice control chemicals.