A Preliminary Investigation: Control of Corrosion by Salt Used for De-Icing Highways^⋆

The use of salt for ice and snow control on streets and highways has caused some concern on the part of municipal officials with respect to increased corrosion of automobile bodies. A cooperative program was undertaken which resulted in the development of a polyphosphate nitrite base inhibitor. Laboratory tests indicated it was effective in controlling corrosion by salt brines. Procedures used in the testing as well as the results obtained are presented. Weight loss data on mild steel panels are given as a function of inhibitor and salt concentrations. Finally, the experience of the City of Rochester, N. Y., using the above inhibitor incorporated in rock salt, are discussed.