Optimum Sand Specifications for Roadway Ice Control

摘要

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, Research Section, has tested several winter maintenance sands to determine which are best suited to reduce skid resistance. It was found that coal ash provided the best skid reduction properties. Concrete sand was superior to the normally used State maintenance sand. Fractured particles proved superior to rounded aggregate. Testing was performed to determine the desirability of using ethylene glycol to prevent freezing in the stockpile. It was found that as little as 1 gallon/ton of sanding materials would significantly reduce handling problems. Windshield breakage is a major consideration in the selection of the maximum particle size. Tests showed that windshields could be damaged by particles as small as 1/4' traveling at a velocity of 35 mph. Rounded particles were found to do more damage than sharp aggregate.