Background – This research effort would like to build off work that investigated the mechanism by which agricultural-based (Ag-base) additives to deicers work to improve deicer function. This research effort will look at the side-by-side performance improvements of various ag-based products in a controlled laboratory setting (Muthumani et al., 2015). Ag-based products will be sought regionally, from sugar beets, apple pulp, pulp/paper plants, potato (vodka co-products), peonies, and others identified in the research process that are readily available in Colorado.
Testing in the field for performance or laboratory testing or a hybrid of the two will be made by the proposer. Testing will include corrosion reduction as compared to NaCl, de-icing performance of the product when applied to the road surface with side comment about performance temperature, and longevity on the pavement. CDOT is not sure if there is a test for “how sticky a product is” but this research will make that recommendation as to how to do this. Currently CDOT has a process to evaluate a product to be included on our Approved Products List (APL) with the following items included that this research may keep in mind.
- Listed on PNS Qualified Products List (PNS = Pacific Northwest Snowfighters)
- Certified Test Report (CTR) Included
- CTR Results within CDOT IFB Specifications
- CTR Results within eight months of submission date
- Freeze point and specific gravity chart included
- Restrictions on use listed
- Use instructions provided including temperature range
- Product meets CDOT needs
The project will include a literature search to identify new and available ag-based products, with the goal of identifying ten unique ag-based additives for testing. Laboratory testing will be conducted, and a final report written to summarize the key findings and how CDOT can begin implementing right away in our winter maintenance practices.
Statewide