Clemson study develops pavement- and environment-friendly deicing chemicals
Studies by a Clemson University civil engineering researcher conclude that the deterioration of concrete pavements at airfields can be accelerated when acetate and formate salts of potassium and sodium are used for deicing and anti-icing.
Based on technology invented by Clemson civil engineer Prasad Rangaraju, South Dakota transportation research scientist Daniel Johnston and a team of FMC Lithium researchers, the company has developed a lithium-modified potassium acetate deicer called LithMelt. The Clemson University Research Foundation licensed the technology to the FMC Corp., Lithium Division. Laboratory studies and field trials have shown that LithMelt deicer is as effective as other deicers without any damaging impact on concrete pavement and the environment.
"We have looked at problems of crumbling airfield pavements for years now and the FAA is determined to slow or halt the deterioration, which can cost millions," said Rangaraju. "In addition, accidents due to icing on roads, bridges, airport runways and other surfaces can cause serious injury, even fatalities. We believe this technology will go a long way toward alleviating needless suffering. There are also cost-savings for agencies through reduced maintenance and increased service life of the infrastructure. Ultimately, the impact of this deicer in improving the safety of operations on airfield pavements is most exciting to our team."
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