Introduction to Beet Juice as a Solution for Icy Roads
December is here, and already we’ve seen multiple winter systems bring impacts to travelers, with more headaches to come. It is known that salt is an effective tool to battle snow and ice on the roads, but it has its limitations.
What is Beet Juice and How Does it Work?
That’s where the beet juice comes in.
Key Points to Consider
What You Need To Know
- Beet juice is used to treat icy roads across many states
- It is used when temperatures drop below 26 degrees
- While more effect and environmentally friendly, it is more expensive than other options
The Effectiveness of Beet Juice
Before and during winter storms, states use salt to help keep roads clear by lowering the freezing point. As temperatures drop, salt becomes less effective, which means other options must be considered.
Beet juice, surprisingly, has been the go-to choice in recent years, especially in states like Missouri. The salt and beet juice mix is effective when temperatures range from 25 to 5 degrees, according to the MoDOT website.
Environmental and Economic Considerations
The beet sugar, which is the same product used for cattle feed and table sugar, not only sticks to roads better but also is more environmentally friendly.
Salt products can be corrosive and cost billions of dollars to infrastructure and vehicles every year.
A tractor operates in a salt storage facility in North Carolina. (NCDOT)
Limitations and Alternatives
So what is the catch? Unfortunately, beet juice is more expensive ($1.70-$1.85 per gallon) so states usually only use it when necessary. It loses its effectiveness once temperatures drop below 5 degrees, so most DOTs turn to calcium chloride as the best option.
Conclusion
While there is no perfect solution, beet juice will help keep drivers safe this winter.
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FAQs
Q: What is beet juice used for in winter road maintenance?
A: Beet juice is used to treat icy roads across many states, particularly when temperatures drop below 26 degrees.
Q: Is beet juice more environmentally friendly than salt?
A: Yes, beet juice is more environmentally friendly than salt, as it is less corrosive and does not harm infrastructure and vehicles.
Q: Why is beet juice not used at extremely low temperatures?
A: Beet juice loses its effectiveness once temperatures drop below 5 degrees, at which point calcium chloride is used as a more effective alternative.
