Broadwood International Information - SnowEx Spreaders Importer and Distributor for UK and Europe of the Snowex salt, grit and sand spreader

Information

Materials for use with SnowEx Spreaders

Choosing a de-icing agent can be daunting given that there are so many different products currently on the market. Don't fret . . . simplify. Take comfort knowing that 95% of all ice melters are made from one or more of six basic ingredients. Consider the effective temperatures for each major ingredient, while factoring in the pros and cons, to choose the right product for your application.

Calcium Chloride
• Effective down to about -32° C.
+ Very hygroscopic salt - readily absorbs moisture.
+ Very low temperature of effectiveness.
- Easily tracked into buildings; can result in
slippery floors.
- Very dusty material; results in safety concerns
for people and animals.

Magnesium Chloride
• Effective down to about -32° C.
+ Very hygroscopic salt - readily absorbs moisture.
+ Very low temperature of effectiveness.
+ Not as dusty as calcium chloride; fewer safety concerns.
- Easily tracked into buildings; can result in slippery floors.
- Material will harden quickly if stored in open bags.

Calcium-Magnesium Acetate (CMA)
•  Effective down to about -9° C.
+ Completely non-corrosive and environmentally friendly.
+ Prevents ice from bonding to surfaces when applied prior to ice and snow accumulation.
-  Very expensive when compared with sodium chloride.

Urea
•  Effective down to about -7° C.
+ Only 10% as corrosive as sodium chloride.
-  Can contaminaye groundwater and runoff collection ponds with nitrates.
-  Relatively high temperature of effectiveness.

Sodium Chloride (Rock Salt)
•  Effective down to about -11° C.
+ Most readily available ice melter.
+Least expensive.
-  Highly corrosive.
-  Potentially damaging to plant and soils.

Potassium Chloride
•  Effective down to about -7° C.
+ Safe around plants and soils.
+ Less corrosive than sodium chloride.
-  Relatively high temeprature of effectiveness.