Amid a severe cold snap gripping southwestern Ontario and a shortage of road salt in municipalities, there is a growing emphasis on exploring alternative methods to de-ice roads. Researchers at Western University initiated a study in 2022 to investigate various substances’ effectiveness in melting road ice, with results expected to be disclosed later this year.
The study is assessing nine different materials to determine their ice-melting capabilities across different conditions. Christopher Power, an associate professor involved in the research, highlighted the prevalent use of sodium chloride (rock salt) by Ontario communities due to its affordability. However, he acknowledged the downsides of rock salt, including its corrosive nature and environmental impact.
Rock salt remains a popular option for clearing ice from roads as it reduces water’s freezing point, preventing new ice formation. Nevertheless, the material’s efficacy diminishes around -10°C. The study at Western University involved testing alternative substances like sodium acetate and beet juice, which are already utilized in various applications for ice melting.
While the research phase has concluded, the team is now focused on analyzing the data collected, including the efficiency and corrosiveness of each substance. Despite the potential discovery of a more effective alternative to sodium chloride, Power expressed skepticism about an immediate shift away from rock salt due to economic factors. He proposed the use of less corrosive substances in specific areas, such as bridges or water bodies, to complement sodium chloride.
Many municipalities, responding to the current road salt shortage, are incorporating different materials into their de-icing strategies. For instance, the City of London plans to increase plowing frequency and reduce salt usage during extreme cold by introducing a sand-salt mix. This adjustment aims to address the limitations of salt in melting snow and ice at extremely low temperatures.
The evolving approach to salt usage by municipalities reflects a trend towards more targeted and environmentally conscious practices. Despite the research into alternative ice-melting substances, the cost-effectiveness of rock salt and budget considerations are likely to sustain its use in the foreseeable future.