Minerals and Chemicals for Ice Control
Except in very light snow, minerals or chemicals should never be used in place of snow plowing. However, in combination with trained personnel and equipment, minerals or chemicals play an important part in controlling ice and snow. Whenever possible, apply minerals or chemicals before a snowfall. You'll use less, and it will be less damaging for the environment. You may have to increase the use of minerals or chemicals at night and as temperatures fall.
Experts agree that the use of chemical mixture of two parts mixed chemicals (1:3 calcium chloride to salt, by weight) mixed with one part abrasive (cinder, sand or slag) is more effective than rock salt alone in melting snow and ice below 30°F. One hundred fifty pounds of such mixture with abrasives will treat a 50,000 sq.ft. surface.
It is imperative to treat priority areas such as hills, heavy traffic areas, bridges and intersections first, especially where snow may compact and adhere to the road surface, causing icy road conditions. When slush begins to stiffen and refreeze, it will be necessary to plow again and reapply chemicals.
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