Ice Melting and Snow Removal Products

There are several different compounds used to melt ice and snow. In order to properly select an ice melting product, it is important to know how each of the individual compounds functions as well as their strengths and shortcomings. It is important to note that any ice melting product used in excess can be harmful to plant life and paved surfaces. It is important to understand how these compounds work in order to use the products in a safe and effective manner.

How ice melter works?

Ice melting compounds consist of different types of salt. As the salt dissolves, it forms a eutectic solution also known as a brine solution. The brine solution has a lower freezing point than water. This causes ice and snow in contact with the brine solution to melt.

When an ice melting compound is placed on ice, the moisture causes the ice melting compound to dissolve. As ice and snow melt, more of the ice melting compound is able to dissolve and the brine solution increases and spreads.

How much ice melter to use?

The primary function of ice melter is to break the bond between the surface and the ice that forms on it. Once the bond is broken, the ice can be easily removed. Ice melter can also be used on cleared surfaces to prevent ice from forming. The amount of ice melting product that should be used depends on the thickness of ice desired to be removed, temperature, and type of ice melting compound used. The ideal amount will penetrate through the ice and form a brine solution underneath the sheet of ice loosening the bond allowing the ice to be cleared away. Ice melter should never be used as a substitute for clearing ice and snow. Any product used in excess can seriously harm surrounding plant life.

Which ice melting product should I use?

There are several factors you should consider when choosing an ice melting product. These factors include site temperature, surface conditions, environmental considerations, cost, etc. The information below explains the benefits and shortcomings of different ice melting compounds. If you are still unsure about what product is right for you, please use our Product Selection Guide. Of course, do not hesitate to contact us.

Sodium Chloride (NaCl)

Sodium chloride is the most commonly used deicing agent due to it's abundance and lost cost. Sodium chloride forms a brine solution capable of melting ice and snow at temperatures as low as -9 degrees Celsius (24F)

Pros:

• Low cost

Cons:

• More corrosive than other ice melting compounds.
• Harmful to plant life.
• Not effective in extremely cold conditions.

Can Melt products containing Sodium Chloride:

Ice Melt, Ice Melt Walks & Steps, Ice Melt Safe Walks

Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂)

Calcium Chloride is the most powerful ice melting compound available with the ability to melt ice and snow in temperatures as low as -31 Celsius (-24F). It is a hygroscopic compound meaning it absorbs moisture. The dissolving process of calcium chloride is an exothermic process that creates temperatures of up to 60 degrees Celsius (140F). The heat generated drastically increases the melting process and also allows the calcium chloride to form a brine solution much quicker. This in turn melts ice even quicker.

Pros:

• Works quicker than all other ice melting compounds
• Less harmful to plant life than sodium chloride
• Less corrosive than sodium chloride

Cons:

• High cost

Can Melt products containing Calcium Chloride:

Ice Melt Safe Walks, Ice Melt Extreme

Magnesium Chloride (MgCl₂)

Magnesium chloride is considered by some to the best overall ice melting compound. It is safe to use around plant life and it is less corrosive than other ice melting compounds. Magnesium chloride is a hygroscopic compound meaning it absorbs moisture. This allows the magnesium chloride to dissolve into a brine solution very quickly hence melting ice and snow very quickly. Relatively harmless to plant life, magnesium chloride is an environmentally friendly alternative for melting ice and snow. Magnesium chloride can effectively melt ice and snow in temperatures as low as -15 degrees Celsius (5F).

Pros:

• Works quicker than sodium chloride
• Less harmful to plant life than both sodium chloride and calcium chloride
• Less corrosive than sodium chloride

Cons:

• Is not effective in extremely cold temperatures
• High Cost

Can Melt products containing Magnesium Chloride:

Ice Melt Safe Walks, Ice Melt Envirogreen