- Applying chemical freezing point depressing materials to roadways or other surfaces (e.g. parking lots, multi-use paths, sidewalks) before the onset of a winter storm to prevent ice and snow from bonding to the paved surface. Traditionally this is accomplished utilizing a liquid deicing chemical, however, in freezing rain conditions when dilution of applied liquids is a concern the use of solid chemicals my be preferred.
- This term may also be used to describe the application of liquid deicing chemicals directly onto stockpiled materials or onto loads of solid materials in the spreader as a batch process before the Snowplow Truck leaves the yard or garage. See pre-wetting
Source: AASHTO Winter Weather Management Technical Service Program