Conductive concrete can de-ice itself

Researchers at the University of Nebraska have developed an augmented concrete that can de-ice itself.

Last month we saw a timely invention from Turkey’s Koc University — a salt embedded asphalt, which could prevent frozen roads. Now, researchers at the University of Nebraska have developed another solution, which sees augmented concrete that can de-ice itself.

The material is made by adding a small amount of steel shavings and carbon particles to the concrete mix, making it conductive enough to carry an electrical charge. It is due to be tested by the FAA next March and if successful, will potentially be used at airports, preventing the areas used by luggage, food and fuel carts from freezing over. A similar material is already used nearby on the Roca Spur Bridge.

Could other cities prone to freezing conditions make use of the material?