Researchers studied the environmental consequences of using a potassium acetate product as an alternative deicer and anti-icer. They found that the chemical could be more toxic than anticipated and should be used with caution.
Potassium acetate is less corrosive to steel and works at lower temperatures than road salt. Two research teams—one from the University of Minnesota and one from Iowa State University (ISU)—coordinated fieldwork, laboratory analyses, and modeling exercises to better understand its environmental consequences. The research was sponsored by the Minnesota Local Road Research Board.
ISU researchers found, unexpectedly, no observable biodegradation of potassium acetate during the study period, suggesting slow degradation in bodies of water. The University of Minnesota research team found that terrestrial and aquatic organisms were more sensitive to potassium acetate at lower levels than sodium chloride, primarily due to potassium.
The researchers concluded that caution should be used when determining where and when to use a potassium acetate product as an alternative deicer. Its use may be limited to temperatures at which other deicers don’t function, and only in certain locations. Researchers prepared user guides to aid decision making.
Learn more:
- Environmental Impacts of Potassium Acetate as a Road Salt Alternative (July 2022, LRRB/MnDOT).