What materials are used in ice-melting products?
There are five main materials that are used as chemical de-icers: calcium chloride, sodium chloride or salt, potassium chloride, urea and calcium magnesium acetate. Q: What’s the most popular? A: Calcium chloride is the traditional product that has been used most often. It is one of the most frequently used materials for road and highway de-icing, and it is effective. It will transform ice into a slippery, slimy surface. This product is effective to about minus 25 degrees. Plants are not likely to be harmed unless excessive amounts are used. Q: What about salt? A: Sodium chloride is the least expensive material available. It is effective to approximately 12 degrees but can damage soil, plants and metals. Q: Is something similar to vinegar also being marketed as a de-icer? A: Calcium magnesium acetate, or CMA, is a newer product that is made from dolomitic limestone and acetic acid, the main compound found in vinegar. CMA works differently than other materials in that it does not form b
