Anti-Icing Comparative Performance Skid Test for Runway Deicers 2015-01-2076

This study presents a new method to evaluate and compare the anti-icing performance, i.e., the ability to delay the reformation of ice, of runways and taxiways deicing/anti-icing fluids (RDF) under icing precipitation, based on the skid resistance values, obtained with the Portable Skid Resistance Tester (PSRT). In summary, the test consists of applying, on a standardized concrete pavement sample, a given quantity of de-icing fluid. Following this application, the concrete sample is submitted to low freezing drizzle intensities, in a cold chamber at −5.0 ± 0.3°C. The skid resistance of concrete is measured at 5 minute intervals, until the concrete becomes completely iced. The anti-icing performance of 5 different fluids, both experimental and commercial, was assessed in comparison with a reference solution of 50% ^w/_w K-formate. The anti-icing performance is analyzed based on two parameters: the duration (Icing Protection Time, IPT) and the effectiveness of this protection. Under test conditions, alcohol-based fluids provide significantly more efficient anti-icing protection compared to the acetate and formate-based fluids.