Soon, you may have to retire the shovel when your driveway is covered in snow. Researchers have found a formula that could melt mounds of snow which make things easier especially during big snow storms.
A team of researches have now found a "concrete" formula that electrifies pavements. The specially formulated concrete can help reduce travel delays by heating up the surface.
A special concrete mix that has electricity conducting ingredients can clear the pavement for consumers. A team from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln uses byproducts from coal and steel with embedded steel rods attached to electrodes. Civil Engineer Chris Tuan has designed the material to be connected to a 120 volt AC power source.
Is it too hot to touch? Not at all, Tuan explains. Compared to heated driveways, the conducting concrete does not have cold spots. The conducting concrete provides even warmth. It's also maintenance free and energy efficient which only consumes 13 watts of energy per square foot.
We keep it barely above freezing... Somewhere around 40 degrees. It doesn't get hot at all.
It sounds like a revolutionary idea especially if the state is plagued with huge snow storms that can paralyze roads with ice and tons of snow. But the downside is, it costs too much.
To remedy this, the Federal Aviation Administration is funding the research to make this conductive concrete much more affordable and cost-effective. The concept itself is a great idea for airport runways and the FAA is interested in using the material.
Deborah D.L. Chung, engineering professor at University at Buffalo-SUNY also explains that cost is the biggest obstacle that needs to be overcome. However, the material requires more testing before it can be commercially available for contractors to use.
The point is - science gives hope. Especially with the recent blizzard in New York City, even probable news can be welcome news.
