Why use liquid calcium chloride for deicing

Posted by Susan California on February 17th, 2019

Liquid deicing materials are very common today because of two main reasons. Firstly, it is very easy to apply to the roads and pavements. Secondly, it is far more effective in bringing about long-term benefits to your roads, when compared to solid anti-icing components. In this article, let us see why liquid calcium chloride is rated quite highly by homeowners and professionals, for removing the ice and snow on the roads, during the harsh winters.

Is it used as a standalone product?

No, usually, liquid calcium chloride is used along with agricultural enhancers and other effective additives such as Iceban to bring out the desired results that you want. Due to its huge popularity, liquid calcium chloride is used in various applications such as anti-icing, pre-wetting and dust control.

When you propose to use this for removing the snow on your roads, you should first check with a professional about the quantity that you need to use. Never add enhancers or additives with this solution, without consulting an expert.

Why is liquid calcium chloride brine useful for melting ice?

Liquid calcium chloride brine is very useful to trigger the melting action, which is why it is very effective for cleaning the roads during the harsh winters. The brine solution is very effective in breaking the connection between the ice and the roads, which is the first step in anti-icing. Once this connection is broken, you can use relevant machines to remove the ice properly.

In a study that was conducted a few years ago, it was proved that the brine solution created using liquid calcium chloride was at least 27% more effective in melting ice when compared to the performances of brines created using magnesium chloride or salt.

It is very easy to apply on roads, pavements, parking lots, stairs or any other place where there is an accumulation of ice and snow. Liquid calcium chloride brine is very cost –effective as well, which is why many homeowners opt for this method. It can work in temperatures drop to as low as - 25 degrees F, making it one of the most effective and affordable solutions in the deicing industry.

When you apply this brine solution directly on the roads or pavements or any other place, they immediately penetrate deep inside the pores and prevent its bond formation with the ice or snow. This reduces the formation of a freezing layer in concrete. So, it is easier to remove the snow, as it is not bound tightly to the roads. According to professionals, snow removal can be done at least 5 times quicker with this solution than when it is done with other solutions.

Does this brine contain only calcium chloride in it?

No, more often than not, the concentration of the liquid calcium chloride brine solution is not only made up of calcium chloride. It also contains small amounts of other chemicals such as magnesium chloride, potassium chloride, and sodium chloride. Calcium chloride amounts to a majority of the composition (around 25%).  The rest of the chemicals amount for around 3 to 4% each.