Liquid Deicing: A Smarter, More Sustainable Snow Solution
The U.S. currently uses more than 20 million tons of rock salt each year for deicing roads and surfaces. While rock salt is effective, its widespread use comes with growing concerns about environmental damage, infrastructure corrosion, and water pollution.
Liquid deicing offers a more targeted and environmentally conscious alternative. By reducing salt usage and minimizing runoff, this method supports sustainable snow solutions without compromising safety.
What Is Liquid Deicing?
Liquid deicing involves applying salt brine, a mixture of rock salt and water, to paved surfaces before or during a storm. Some blends also include additives that improve performance or reduce corrosion.
Contrary to the idea that salt works best in solid form, rock salt must actually dissolve into a brine before it becomes effective. When you apply liquid salt, you’re using the most potent form of the material right from the start.
This allows for more even coverage and faster activation—often with far less salt.
The Eco Impact of Deicers: Why Liquid Wins
If you're evaluating the liquid salt environmental effects, here are a few key benefits that make it a better choice for the planet:
Uses Less Salt Overall
Liquid brine uses only about 25% of the salt required for granular applications. Less salt means less chloride making its way into rivers, lakes, and soil.
Reduces Runoff
Granular salt is easily pushed off road surfaces by tires, wind, or snowplows. Once off the pavement, it often ends up in storm drains or green spaces.
Salt brine adheres more effectively to the surface, lowering the chance of environmental runoff.
More Accurate Application
Liquid systems allow for controlled coverage. That means you can apply deicers only where needed, reducing overspray onto sidewalks, vegetation, or curbs.
Helps Protect Infrastructure
Many liquid salt mixtures include corrosion inhibitors. These additives help prevent damage to metal fixtures, concrete surfaces, and vehicles over time.
The Environmental Cost of Overusing Salt
The environmental concerns tied to traditional deicers are significant:
-
One teaspoon of salt can permanently pollute five gallons of water.
-
Salt-contaminated runoff can damage aquatic ecosystems.
-
Rising chloride levels have made some lakes unable to support fish or aquatic life.
-
Drinking water wells near roads and parking lots are increasingly affected by salt pollution.
The long-term environmental cost of granular rock salt is one of the reasons liquid deicing is gaining attention as a sustainable snow solution.
A Cleaner Approach to Winter Maintenance
By switching to liquid salt brine, you not only reduce salt usage but also contribute to a cleaner, safer environment. Fewer pollutants, less damage to infrastructure, and more control over application make it a practical and eco-conscious choice for today’s snow contractors.
If you want to learn more about how liquid deicing can benefit your operation and the environment, contact VSI: