Pre-wetting refers to the addition of liquid melting agents to salt or salt/abrasive mixes to improve their melting capabilities at lower temperatures by lowering their freeze point. Pre-wetting also helps the dry material stick to the road so there is more melting. Generally, 5-15 gallons of liquid is added per ton of dry material. Pre-wetting is accomplished through the use of truck mounted tank/pump systems or by overhead spraying as the truck is being loaded.

Reactive process of melting accumulated snow/ice from road surface. Generally done with salt to lower the freezing point of the snow/ice. Salt/abrasive mix is also used to melt and provide temporary traction.

Proactive measure of applying a chemical (e.g. Salt-Brine, Calcium Chloride or Liquid De-icers) to a road surface prior to a storm to prevent snow/ice from bonding to the pavement. Liquid amount generally applied is 15 to 70 gallons per lane mile.

Can refer to either pre-treating the roads (Anti-icing) or pre-treating the salt with a liquid (Pre-wetting) to enhance the melting process.

A 23% mixture of tap water and rock salt. Salt-brine is generally made using a brine manufacturing unit (see Salt/Brine Manufacturing).