Q:In the winter, does the University use environmentally friendly ice-melting products?

A: Our Grounds Department currently uses an ice-melting product that consists of a blend of compounds, including magnesium chloride, calcium chloride, potassium chloride, sodium chloride, and some urea (a nitrogen-based fertilizer).

In order to balance saftety (it has a -6° melting point) with protecting concrete surfaces from corrosion, they hope to keep the ice at bay without damaging plants and road surfaces.

*Note that the Office of Sustainability is a clearinghouse for information on sustainability initiatives being carried out by other departments and groups at the U of Utah.

Please contact us if you have ideas!