Amid a persistent deep freeze in southwestern Ontario and a notable road salt shortage in municipalities, there is a growing emphasis on exploring alternative methods to de-ice roads. Researchers at Western University have initiated a study in 2022 to investigate this matter, with plans to unveil the study findings later this summer.
The research is centered on evaluating nine different substances to determine their effectiveness in melting road ice across various conditions. Christopher Power, an associate professor involved in the study, highlighted the prevalent use of sodium chloride (rock salt) by Ontario municipalities due to its affordability.
While rock salt effectively clears ice by lowering water’s freezing point, it poses well-documented drawbacks. Its corrosive nature can accelerate the deterioration of metal components near or on roads, such as bridges and vehicles. Additionally, the environmental impact of salt runoff into water bodies, including the Great Lakes, has raised concerns about ecosystem health.
The study at Western University involved testing various ice-melting substances on designated campus areas. Despite the completion of the study phase, researchers are currently compiling data on the melting efficiency and corrosiveness of each substance. Although no definitive superior alternative to sodium chloride has been identified, considerations for supplementing rock salt with less corrosive options in specific areas, such as near water bodies or bridges, have been proposed.
Acknowledging the economic factors influencing road salt usage, Power noted that rock salt’s low cost continues to be a significant factor for municipalities under financial constraints. However, a shift towards a more targeted approach to salt application, as observed in many municipalities facing salt shortages, is gaining traction. For instance, the City of London plans to enhance plowing frequency while reducing salt usage during the current salt scarcity.
In response to extreme cold conditions, London intends to adopt a sand-salt mix for road treatment, as traditional salt may not be as effective in such temperatures. This adaptive approach reflects a broader trend towards exploring diversified de-icing strategies to mitigate the impact of salt shortages and environmental concerns.