4848

Iowa State University researchers have developed a method of producing precast slabs of electrically conductive concrete described in ISURF 4796 as well as hydronic heated-pavement systems, in which a heated fluid is circulated in pipes that are embedded in the pavement structure.  The heated pavement systems allow for quick and efficient snow and ice removal from the pavement, and has better heat distribution and accelerated construction procedures since the concrete is precast.

Traditional methods of ice and snow removal from pavements involve using deicing chemicals along with mechanical removal.  These methods require large manpower, sophisticated machinery, and environmentally harmful chemicals, which can result in damage to the pavement.  A recent alternative to these methods involves using heated-pavement systems (HPS), which heat the pavement in order to melt snow and ice.  This invention describes precast concrete for an electrically conductive concrete (ECON) HPS.  Precast concrete provides high strength, low permeability, and low cracking potential since is prepared off-site with higher quality control.  The off-site production also allows for more effective heat distribution with individual slab testing before application.  Furthermore, precast concrete has quicker installation, which cuts construction costs and is very beneficial for rapid pavement repair.

This technology is related to ISURF 4796: Electrically conductive concrete mixture composition and system design for resistive heating of pavements with low volume fractions of carbon microfiber and ISURF 4834: Electrically-conductive asphalt concrete containing carbon fibers

• No chemicals or mechanical snow/ice removal required

• Increased lifespan of concrete

• Increased strength of concrete

• Quicker snow/ice removal

• Increased quality and reliability of product

Rapid snow/ice removal from pavement

Patent(s) applied for