Road salts have been a popular and effective deicing method over the years. However, these deicers can wreak havoc on ecosystems, damage concrete, infrastructures, and vehicles, and even cause skin irritations and salt burns1. Given these hazardous effects, it’s crucial to explore less harmful alternatives. Here are some eco-friendly alternatives to road salt:
- Sugar Beet Juice
Beet juice is a waste product that remains after the sugar is extracted from sugar beets1. It helps lower the freezing point of ice and reduces clumping of road salt when it is spread on streets1. While it might not be as effective as road salt, it is safer for pets and not corrosive to vehicles1. It is fully biodegradable and contains less sodium chloride compared to traditional road salts1. - Brine
Brine is known as an anti-icing measure1. Brines have great melting characteristics and are applied in liquid form1. They are more effective in lower temperatures and using them is cost-effective1. Brine reduces the melting point, prevents freezing, works fast, stays on the road, and consumes fewer resources1. Cheese Brine is also used for this purpose1. - Calcium Magnesium Acetate (CMA)
CMA causes less damage than NaCl to materials in vehicles1. This environment-friendly alternative is biodegradable1. CMA is a non-corrosive formula that does little damage to the infrastructure, vegetation, fish, aquatic life, and other surroundings around it1. However, it is more expensive than salt and is less effective when used in colder temperatures1. - Sand
Sand is one of the most commonly used rock salt alternatives1. It helps provide traction on slippery areas and roadways for safe driving in winters1. It is relatively inexpensive and environment-friendly1. Sand has no ice melting capacity and does not function as a deicer1. However, it gives you a temporary increase in road friction on icy pavements1. - Coffee Grounds
Coffee grounds can be used for icy sidewalks and driveways1. Coffee grinds can be used to provide traction but sometimes caffeine can be toxic to pets1.
While these alternatives present promising solutions to the environmental issues posed by road salts, it’s important to remember that each comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. For instance, while beet juice is eco-friendly and safe for wildlife, it may not be as effective as salt alone2. Similarly, potassium acetate shows promise in melting ice at really low temperatures but more research is needed to understand its environmental impact2.
In conclusion, while there’s no perfect answer yet, these alternatives offer a step towards a more sustainable future. As we continue to innovate and research, we hope to find even more effective and eco-friendly solutions to keep our roads safe during winter.