Material application methodologies for winter road maintenance: a renewed perspective

Abstract

Winter roadway operations, commonly known as snow and ice control operations, are one of the most critical functions of state, provincial, and local transportation agencies in cold regions. These operations aim to provide safety and mobility through the timely and effective application of materials and mechanical removal. The most common materials used are salt (sodium chloride, solid or liquid brine), magnesium chloride-based, calcium chloride-based deicers, agro-based additives and blends, and abrasives. In practice, the specific choice and application method and rate of these materials are dependent on pavement temperature, precipitation type, level of service goals, budget, and environmental sustainability considerations. Best practices of material application are designed to apply the right type and amount of materials in the right place at the right time. This review presents a literature review and agency interviews that were conducted to gather information about the use of materials, including types of materials, application strategies, application rates, and application equipment.