Lim Nguyen and Chris Tuan from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, created a conductive concrete roadway that can solve the issue of keeping roads clear in winter. Although many cities have developed ways to deal with snow and ice, heavy storms can still bring traffic to a standstill. This heated road could solve winter traffic problems by simply melting snow and ice on contact.
The heated roadway developed by Nguyen and Tuan consists of conductive concrete that instantly melts snow and ice. This is possible due to electric currents running through the concrete, which ultimately turn the road into a giant heater. 48 volts is all that is needed to power the road and if it is turned on prior to a snowstorm it can prevent snow and ice from settling in the first place. While the heated slabs do cost slightly more than regular pavement, the road is still affordable because it is partially made from recycled industrial waste.
Ice-Melting Roadways
This Conductive Concrete Roadway Melts Snow and Ice on Contact
Trend Themes
1. Conductive Concrete Technology - Innovations in conductive concrete technology lead to disruptive solutions in anti-icing and de-icing infrastructure.
2. Sustainable Infrastructure - The integration of conductive concrete made from recycled materials presents more environmentally-friendly and cost-efficient infrastructure solutions.
3. Smart Roadways - The application of conductive concrete technology has advanced the development of smart roadways that utilize electric currents for de-icing and other applications.
Industry Implications
1. Transportation and Infrastructure - The conductive concrete roadway technology presents opportunities for disruptive innovations in the transportation and infrastructure sector.
2. Construction and Engineering - The development of conductive concrete presents opportunities for construction and engineering companies to integrate sustainable and innovative materials in their projects.
3. Waste Management - The integration of recycled industrial waste in conductive concrete presents opportunities for companies in the waste management industry to contribute to sustainable infrastructure solutions.