In particular, salt-treated abrasives can accelerate vehicle corrosion. Recent concern has been raised in areas with air pollution. As a result, cleaner abrasives and quicker cleanup after the storm are being required in areas with severe air pollution problems. Some sand and abrasives will be more effective than others. For better traction, use material with crushed or angular particles for better traction.
Rounded particles are less effective.
Very small particles and dirt are actually harmful to traction. To minimize windshield damage, use materials in which all particles are smaller than three-eighths inch. Combining with chemicals Treating sand with 50-100 pounds of salt per cubic yard is necessary to keep it from becoming frozen and unworkable. It also helps to anchor the sand into the ice surface, makes the sand easier to load from the stockpile, and makes it spread more evenly from mechanical spreaders. If slag, cinders, or other abrasives are wet they also need salt to be usable.