Potassium Acetate – Snow and Ice Control Solution for Airport Operations

Winter, with its accompanying cold weather and freezing precipitation, can make runways slippery and dangerous for takeoff and landing. To prevent snow and ice buildup, airports apply potassium acetate on roads and walkways used by planes, vehicles, and staff. The substance is an effective deicer and a better alternative to chloride salts (i.e. magnesium chloride and calcium chloride) because it is less corrosive, making it ideal for airport runways. Likewise, it is less aggressive on soil, making it suitable for areas of environmental sensitivity. High technical grade potassium acetate is preferred for many different applications, and being in liquid form, is easier to blend and use in various concentrations.

Reputable manufacturers of potassium acetate can supply it in bulk or in easy to handle containers, like drums. The product is safe for runways and will not harm airplanes and other equipment used in airports. Unlike other deicers, potassium acetate works fast and requires minimal application. It can be applied using existing applicators or equipment, and it can remain active, even at sub-zero temperatures. Hence, it is more reliable in improving the safety of airport runways and ensuring the continuity of airport operations, even during inclement weather.

Deicers are required when manually removing snow and ice is insufficient and doesn’t expose the surface of the road or runway. Potassium acetate deicers prevent snow and other precipitation from forming ice, while breaking down existing frozen material. An effective deicer should reduce the melting point of snow and ice, and turn it into a liquid brine which will run off. Any remaining snow and ice, once the bond has melted, can be removed manually or mechanically. Potassium acetate deicers are preferred over conventional glycol-based deicers, which can make the runway slippery. It possesses superb deicing characteristics, has low biochemical oxygen demand, is urea-free, and biodegrades at low temperatures. Potassium acetate is a cost-effective deicer, with minimal environmental impact and a longer lasting effect.