Document Summary

This is a Solid Chemical Application Guidelines document developed by the New Jersey Department of Transportation for the Winter Maintenance Program. Based on standards originally established by the Federal Highway Administration and the US Army Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory, this guideline provides standardized protocols for applying anti-icing chemicals across various winter weather conditions in New Jersey.

The document provides detailed operational guidance organized by weather event type—including light snow storms, moderate or heavy snow storms, frost or black ice conditions, freezing rain storms, and sleet storms. For each weather scenario, the guidelines specify chemical application rates measured in pounds per lane-mile, maintenance actions required, and operational procedures based on pavement temperature ranges. Application rates vary significantly by temperature range and weather intensity, ranging from 150 to 400 pounds per lane-mile depending on conditions. The guidance distinguishes between initial operations and subsequent maintenance applications, with specific recommendations for pre-wetted solid chemicals, liquid chemicals, and abrasives. Key operational principles include timing applications to prevent ice bond formation, plowing excess precipitation before chemical application, and adjusting application frequency and rates based on pavement temperature, traffic volume, and precipitation intensity. Below 15°F, chemical applications are generally not recommended, with abrasives suggested instead for enhanced traction.