CLEMSON — Studies by a Clemson University civil engineering researcher conclude that the deterioration of concrete pavements at airfields can be accelerated when acetate and formate salts of potassium and sodium are used for deicing and anti-icing.
The details of the study managed by the Innovative Pavement Research Foundation with funding from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) can be viewed at www.iprf.org/reports
Based on technology invented by Clemson civil engineer Prasad Rangaraju, South Dakota transportation research scientist Daniel Johnston and a team of FMC Lithium researchers, the company has developed a lithium-modified potassium acetate deicer called LithMelt. The Clemson University Research Foundation licensed the technology to the FMC Corp., Lithium Division. Laboratory studies and field trials have shown that LithMelt deicer is as effective as other deicers without any damaging impact on concrete pavement and the environment.
"We have looked at problems of crumbling airfield pavements for years now and the FAA is determined to slow or halt the deterioration, which can cost millions," said Rangaraju. "In addition, accidents due to icing on roads, bridges, airport runways and other surfaces can cause serious injury, even fatalities. We believe this technology will go a long way toward alleviating needless suffering. There are also cost-savings for agencies through reduced maintenance and increased service life of the infrastructure. Ultimately, the impact of this deicer in improving the safety of operations on airfield pavements is most exciting to our team."
From its headquarters in Charlotte, N.C., FMC Lithium serves markets including pool-water treatment, air treatment, construction, energy, fine chemicals, pharmaceuticals, glass and ceramics, greases and lubricants and polymers. Information is available at www.fmclithium.com. FMC Corporation (NYSE:FMC) is a diversified chemical company serving agricultural, industrial and consumer markets globally for more than a century with innovative solutions, applications and quality products.