Jäätõrjevahendites

Jäätõrjevahendites refers to substances used to prevent or remove ice. These are commonly employed in various applications, most notably on roads, sidewalks, and airport runways to ensure safety and maintain transportation flow during cold weather. The primary goal is to lower the freezing point of water, thereby preventing ice formation or melting existing ice.

Common types of de-icing agents include salt-based compounds like sodium chloride (rock salt), calcium chloride, and magnesium chloride. These salts work by dissociating into ions in water, which disrupts the formation of ice crystals. Different salts have varying effectiveness at different temperatures, with calcium chloride and magnesium chloride being more efficient at lower temperatures than sodium chloride.

Other de-icing agents include non-chloride options such as potassium acetate and calcium magnesium acetate. These are often considered more environmentally friendly as they are less corrosive to metals and infrastructure and have lower toxicity to aquatic life and vegetation. Urea is another chemical that can be used, though it is less common for large-scale de-icing due to its lower effectiveness at very low temperatures and potential for nutrient runoff.

In addition to chemical de-icers, abrasive materials like sand, gravel, or crushed stone are sometimes used. These do not melt ice but provide traction on icy surfaces, improving safety for vehicles and pedestrians. The choice of de-icing agent depends on factors such as temperature, cost, environmental impact, and the specific application.