What Chemicals Are Used to Melt Ice on Roads & Walkways?

Salt

• Salt is a well known solution to ice on driveways and roadways. It is inexpensive, easy to find in stores, and will melt ice rapidly. Many municipalities use salt to melt local roadways, like Jefferson City. The City of Columbia mixes one part salt with three parts cinder to melt ice on their roadways. Salt can be mixed with sand or cat litter to increase traction while melting ice.

  However, salt can be problematic for a number of reasons. First, salt is less effective in colder weather. It will not melt ice as quickly below 20 degrees. Second, salt is corrosive to driveways and concrete. It can damage lawns and gardens, and can be toxic to animals.

Potassium Chloride

• Less abrasive than salt, potassium chloride will quickly melt ice on driveways and roadways. It works as quickly as salt but without the corrosion. Additionally, potassium chloride will work at colder temperatures than salt and has been effective down to zero degree temperatures.

Calcium Chloride

• Calcium chloride melts ice quickly and without the abrasiveness of salt. It works in cold temperatures, down to 25 degrees below zero, and can melt ice more effectively than potassium chloride. However, it can be dangerous for plants and pets, and should be used carefully so that it is not tracked into the home where pets and children can be affected.

Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)

• Calcium magnesium acetate is effective for melting ice, but is relatively slow in comparison to potassium chloride and calcium chloride. It is more expensive than salt, costing around $1 per pound, which can be expensive depending on the size of the surface. However, it does work in really cold temperatures below zero degrees which can be important during major storms.

Magnesium Chloride

• Magnesium chloride mixes are safer and more environmentally friendly than other chemicals if used per the instructions on the packaging. It is less expensive, costing about half as much as CMA, and can be used at temperatures as cold as 25 degrees below zero.

Radiant Heat Driveway

• Another solution to ice on the driveway which can be less environmentally damaging than any chemical or salt solution is a radiant heat driveway. A radiant heat driveway is a simple flip of the switch; heat comes up from under the driveway and melts ice with no corrosion or abrasiveness, and no damage to the lawn. This is an expensive solution, and cannot be used on an entire roadway, but it is a safe solution for a driveway.