They can also cause damage to carpeting, shoes, linoleum and tile floors, cement, and metal if not handled appropriately. In addition, products that contain urea should be avoided because they can pose health risks for humans and the environment. Laws and Guidelines Minnesota Statutes 160.215 restricts the use of salt and other harmful, corrosive chemicals on roadways. These chemicals are only permitted in areas where traction is critical, such as on hills, at intersections, or on high-speed or principal roadways. Performance Sidewalks, Walkways, and Bridge Decks Potassium acetate, potassium chloride, and magnesium chloride are reliable choices for smaller areas, such as bridge decks, sidewalks, walkways, and entrances.
Potassium acetate is a biodegradable liquid de-icer with good ice melting capacity.
It is frequently used as a pre-wetting agent for sand, and because it is corrosive, it is mixed with a corrosion inhibitor. Potassium and magnesium chlorides are frequently used under sidewalk sand, and although they contain chloride that may be toxic to plants in large quantities, they are less environmentally damaging than sodium or calcium chloride products, when applied properly. Potassium and magnesium chlorides are readily available, moderately priced, and easy to apply to sidewalks, walkways, and entrances. Read labels carefully, and always apply de-icers according to manufacturer's instructions. Roads and Highways Alternatives to sand and road salt are corn-based liquid concentrates and blends.