Identification and Laboratory Assessment of Best Practices to Protect DOT Equipment from the Corrosive Effect of Chemical Deicers

AIDC project number: 410005

PI(s):

Xianming Shi (MSU)

Funding:
  • US Department of Transportation (RITA)
  • Washington Department of Transportation
  • Montana State University
  • Start Date: Jan 1, 2011
  • End Date: Jun 30, 2012

Project Summary

The objective of this project is to identify, evaluate and synthesize best practices that can be implemented to minimize the effects of deicer corrosion on DOT winter vehicles and equipment, such as design improvements, maintenance practices, and the use of coatings and corrosion inhibitors. The research in Part I will include a comprehensive literature review coupled with a survey of current practice and the state of the art from DOTs, airlines, automobile/trucking, waterborne transportation, defense and other industries. This will be followed by phone interviews and laboratory evaluation of select products and practices, culminating in the cost benefit analysis of select practices and products and the development of implementation recommendations. Part II of this project will include the development of best practice guidelines and their periodical updates along with laboratory and field research to validate best practices if deemed necessary.