As part of this research project, a literature review, a survey of practice, field data collection, and an analysis of application rates was conducted. The literature review covered application rates, performance measures, chemical products, environmental impacts, corrosion, impacts on concrete and asphalt, agro-based products, and benefit-cost analyses. A survey of practice was conducted to gather agencies’ winter maintenance practices involving materials, predominant winter conditions, liquid application rates, experience, performance measures, and interest in serving as a study site. Agencies from different geographical regions of the United States were selected for field data collection to provide a wide range of winter conditions, road types, and resources. Data collected consisted of route information and field data in terms of weather, roadway conditions, materials, application rates, and performance measures. Seventeen agencies representing nine states submitted data from 31 routes resulting in field data for 167 storms. Ranges of application rates were identified according to pavement temperature, temperature trend, road surface condition, and materials used.
Guidance was developed exclusively from field data and practitioner feedback. Guidance was developed for liquid applications, blends, and “Shake and Bake” for light snow conditions (<1 in/hr., <4” in 24 hrs.). Shake and Bake is a combination of liquid and solid applications. Application rate ranges are provided in tables by material, pavement temperature, temperature trend, and supporting information regarding field data (agencies and number of storms observed).
