Salt can melt ice and help prevent water from refreezing by ultimately lowering the freezing point of water. This sensation is referred to as freezing point depression. It will take an estimated 15 minutes for salt to melt ice.
Using Salt To Melt Ice
Table salt will dissolve into sodium and chloride ions when in water. Putting salt on water is not the only time freezing point depression can occur. Any time particles are added to a liquid, you can lower its freezing point while also raising its boiling point.
Vodka is another prime example of freezing point depression. Vodka contains both water and ethanol, as it does not ordinarily freeze in a home freezer. The alcohol in the water will lower the freezing point of the water.
How Does Rock Salt Melt Ice?
Salt will melt ice because adding salt lowers the freezing point of water. The salt does not melt the ice entirely without a little water present. Typically, ice is coated with a thin film of liquid water, which is essentially all that’s needed to melt the ice.
Pure water will freeze at 32°F or 0°C. Water with salt can freeze at lower temperatures overall. Just how low the temperatures will be ultimately depends on the de-icing agent. For example, if you put salt on ice in a circumstance where the temperature will never reach the new freezing point of the salt-water solution, there will be no benefit seen.
Another example includes tossing table salt onto ice that’s 0°F. It will do nothing more than coat the ice with a thin layer of salt. Meanwhile, if you put that same salt on ice that’s 15°F, the salt will be able to prevent the melting ice from freezing over again. If the temperature goes down to a level where salt water can freeze, energy is released when bonds form as the liquid becomes a solid.
How Long Does It Take Salt To Melt Ice?
It takes about 15 minutes for salt to completely melt the ice, as mentioned above.
However, the exact amount of time this process takes will vary based on how thick the ice is and when the pellets are applied.
What Are The Most Common Types Of Ice Melt?
Below are three of the most common types of ice melt used on roadways. Let’s take a look at these types in detail.
Calcium Chloride
This is a fast-acting ice melter that can eliminate ice from roads, pavements, and driveways. Calcium chloride is one of the most efficient commercial deicers that has the ability to melt snow at temperatures down to -25 degrees Fahrenheit.
It absorbs moisture from the environment, naturally generating heat as it dissolves into the ice. This makes it especially efficient in very cold conditions.
Magnesium Chloride
This is a popular option for anyone with pets as Magnesium chloride is considered a pet-safe ice melt. Of course, it’s always to avoid any contact with the melt in order to prevent any potential burns or irritation.
Magnesium chloride absorbs moisture from the air, then releases heat to ultimately melt the ice quicker. Unfortunately, this is NOT the best option for extremely cold weather.
Potassium Chloride
This is a very common ice melt that is typically perceived as a less effective solution for the extreme cold. While it is very affordable, it is also not your best option for wood surfaces and areas with lots of plants.
Potassium chloride is best used during the early months of winter. It can also be used in areas that never get too cold at any point of the year.
Conclusion
There are many ways you can melt ice on a roadway, but ice melter salts are the most efficient options. Calcium, magnesium, and potassium chloride can all be spread in large areas to melt ice quickly.
Always remember to exercise caution when spreading these solutions. Be mindful of any nearby plants, pets, or children. Ensure you follow the application instructions at all times.
Salt Works USA In Arizona
At Salt Works we strive to meet the salt delivery needs for the entire Phoenix valley. Proudly serving the great state of Arizona for over 20 years, Salt Works has become a leading provider for salt and water treatment needs by earning the trust of our valued customers. We promise to build on our strong foundation and reputation through exceptional customer service and quality of our products. Contact us today!
