How to Use Calcium for Ice & Snow Melting
Calcium is an element on the periodic table. In its pure form, calcium is dangerous to handle and reacts readily with water--the reason why pure elemental calcium is never found in nature. If you need to clear your driveway or walkway of snow, however, a calcium compound called calcium chloride (CaCl2) can do the job. When it dissolves in water, calcium chloride decreases the freezing point. Sprinkling de-icers with calcium chloride on snow or ice increase the rate at which it melts to help keep your walk or driveway clear. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Read the manufacturer's instructions on the package or bag. If the directions conflict with any of the instructions outlined below, follow the manufacturer's instructions; different products may have specific guidelines for application.
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Check the outside temperature. Calcium chloride ice melt only works above -20 degrees Fahrenheit. If the temperature falls to -20 or below, the ice melt will make no difference, so you're better off staying warm inside.
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Pour some of the ice melt mix into a bucket, then seal the bag or container.
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Scoop ice melt from the bucket and scatter it thinly across the walkway or drive. Don't sprinkle it in thick layers; a little CaCl2 is sufficient to melt the ice in any one place.
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Tips & Warnings
Calcium chloride readily absorbs water, so a driveway or walkway treated with CaCl2 will remain wet. Be careful on the walkway after applying the ice melt; wet pavements are less treacherous than ice or snow, but they're still slippery.
Be extremely careful when walking on snow or ice; slipping on ice is a common cause of wintertime accidents.
Although calcium chloride is more environmentally friendly than sodium chloride, large quantities can potentially damage plants. Don't pour the calcium chloride onto the driveway--there's no need to add thick layers, just a sprinkle.
References
- Photo Credit icy bridge image by Jon Le-Bon from Fotolia.com
