CaCl2 or NaCl: which de-icing salt do you choose in freezing temperatures?

Not all de-icing salt works equally well at all temperatures. Anyone responsible for ice control in winter would do well to know the difference between sodium chloride (NaCl) and calcium chloride (CaCl2).

WHAT IS SODIUM CHLORIDE (NaCl)?

Regular de-icing salt mainly consists of sodium chloride. NaCl is effective to about -8°C.

WHAT IS CALCIUM CHLORIDE (CaCl2)?

Calcium chloride is a chemical compound that remains effective even at temperatures down to -30°C. It also has an exothermic reaction.

THE BLEND: THE BEST OF BOTH

A popular solution is the blend: a mix of NaCl and CaCl2. Famsalt supplies this blend in 25kg bags and big bags.

WHEN DO YOU CHOOSE WHICH PRODUCT?

- Temperatures above -8°C: NaCl suffices - Between -8°C and -20°C: blend recommended - Below -20°C: pure CaCl2