author(s)
Tao Chen, Ying Zhang, Biao Ren, Yan Lv, Tao Ge, Erlei Bai & Li Wang
Abstract
Microwave deicing technology presents a modern and efficient solution for concrete pavement deicing, offering a safer, faster, and more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional methods. Unlike physical and chemical deicing techniques that may damage surfaces or pollute the environment, microwave deicing applies electromagnetic waves to heat concrete internally. This approach efficiently melts the overlying ice without direct mechanical contact or corrosive agents.
The deicing process occurs in four distinct stages: Heat from Concrete Stage (HCS), Heat from Water Stage (HWS), Ice Thinning Stage (ITS), and Ice Breaking and Melting Stage (IBMS). Each stage reflects the transition of energy absorption and distribution in the pavement-ice system. The efficiency of this method is evaluated using five key indicators: the time to reach 0 °C, the time for water layer formation, duration until ice breaking, deicing area, and ice-breaking area.
One of the significant advancements involves enhancing the microwave absorption capacity of concrete through the addition of carbon fibres. Among various fibre lengths tested, 0.6 cm carbon fibres demonstrated the most notable performance. This composite resulted in a deicing speed twice as fast and a deicing area 1.2 times larger than that of plain concrete, showing that optimal fibre dispersion plays a vital role in microwave energy utilisation.
Further theoretical analysis reveals that the temperature rise rate during deicing is governed by a balance between heat generation and dissipation—making it a complex, multi-phase thermodynamic process. The findings support a more strategic approach to energy use and system design in cold regions where ice removal is critical to traffic safety.
Microwave deicing not only reduces environmental impact and operational costs but also improves response time and road usability during winter. This makes it a highly promising candidate for future large-scale implementation in road maintenance and safety engineering.
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