Scientists Develop a Green Solution to De-Ice Roads that Lasts for Years

Brief 

Say goodbye to harmful chloride-based salts used to de-ice roads. Scientists have developed a greener and more effective solution that can be mixed right into the asphalt, remaining active for up to eight years. Learn more about this innovative solution and its benefits for the environment and drivers.

Insight

Researchers from China’s Hebei University of Science and Technology, along with other institutions, have developed a greener and more effective alternative to chloride-based salts that are currently used to de-ice roads.

These salts can harm the environment, corrode steel and other materials, and require repeated application throughout the winter. The researchers developed a chloride-free acetate-based salt that is less environmentally harmful, less corrosive, and works at lower temperatures.

The salt was then mixed with a surfactant, silicon dioxide, sodium bicarbonate, and blast furnace slag, producing a fine powder. The powder was then coated with a polymer solution to create microcapsules, which were added to conventional asphalt mixture.

The resulting special asphalt continuously melts snow and lowers the freezing point of water from 0ºC (32ºF) to -21ºC (-6ºF), keeping roads clear for seven to eight years. This innovative solution reduces the harmful effects of de-icing salt on the environment, while providing an effective way to keep roads safe and clear during the winter months.

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