Correlating Lab and Field Tests for Evaluation of Deicing and Anti-icing Chemicals: A Renewed Perspective

Numerous laboratory and field studies have been conducted to evaluate the performance of deicing and anti-icing products and their resulting friction coefficient of treated pavement. However, laboratory results often do not translate to the field performance due to varying temperatures, wind, traffic, etc. in actual field conditions. Also, the existing laboratory tests fail to address all the significant issues in the actual field environment or to provide actual performance of deicers to guide practitioners. This study sheds light on the challenges of developing a laboratory test that correlates the field test based on literature reviews and interviews from various agencies and practitioners. Recommendations for laboratory testing include the use of environmental chamber that can control and monitor air temperature, humidity, air speed and solar radiation. In addition, it is recommended to incorporate a plowing mechanism into the laboratory test to better simulate the field operations. Two friction-measuring devices were recommended that can be used both in laboratory and in field. In addition, it may be preferable to use a friction trailer if the necessary laboratory space can be obtained. For field testing, it is preferable to conduct the research in a controlled field environment. Recommendations from this study may assist in developing a test method that would closely mimic the actual performance.