Section 9: Abrasives
The most economical materials used in snow and
ice control are abrasives. However, abrasives on the road must be
removed and sweeping adds expenses. Abrasives can also cause damage
to windshields and auto paint. To avoid windshield and other minor
damage, districts may consider using lightweight (grade 5 or smaller)
aggregate as abrasives.
Fine abrasives can potentially cause problems on PFC Pavement
by inhibiting drainage through the pavement structure. Each district's
plan should identify all PFC Pavement. Only de-icing material that
becomes completely soluble should be used.
A mixture of solid chemical and abrasives is effective in
treating roadways in some areas. The mixture ensures abrasives will
be present to help provide traction and to give the public a visual
clue that ice may be present and that TxDOT is working the event. The
addition of solid chemicals will assist in keeping ice slushy and
will expedite melting as freezing temperatures end.