Tag: Road salt

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, road salt runoff can contaminate drinking water supplies and harm aquatic life. When faced with icy conditions, many wonder about a less harmful alternative, leading to the question: is magnesium chloride worse than salt? The answer depends heavily on your priorities for environmental safety, budget, and impact on property.

Millions of tons of salt are applied to roads in North America each winter, with much of it ending up in waterways, raising concerns: Is salt brine toxic?. The answer depends heavily on its source and concentration, presenting varying risks to humans, animals, and the environment depending on its specific application and composition.

According to research, magnesium is essential for over 300 biochemical reactions in the human body, and magnesium chloride is one of the most readily available forms. This compound can be derived from several natural origins and is also intentionally included in numerous commercial products for a variety of purposes.

According to the Missouri Department of Transportation, a mixture of 80% salt brine and 20% beet juice is often used in winter road treatments. This sweet solution is the answer to the question, "What is the sugar on icy roads?" and is part of an increasingly common strategy to fight snow and ice more effectively.