Abstract:
National Cooperative Highway Research Program (NCHRP) Report 577, "Guidelines for the Selection of Snow and Ice Control Materials to Mitigate Environmental Impacts," presents the results of an evaluation of 42 frequently used deicing chemicals. It also presents three valuable tools for road agencies: a decision tool to select the most suitable snow and ice control chemical, a purchase specification, and a monitoring program for quality assurance, including procedures and standard test methods. The material selection tool enables rational, informed, and objective decision making about the choices of chemicals, considering the locally determined balance of costs, performance, and handling methods, as well as the probable impacts on the environment and infrastructure.
