What is calcium magnesium acetate?

Calcium magnesium acetate (CMA) is a chemical compound used as a de-icing agent on roads and sidewalks. It is a mixture of calcium acetate and magnesium acetate, which are both salts of acetic acid.

CMA is often used as an alternative to traditional rock salt or sodium chloride for de-icing purposes because it is less damaging to the environment. CMA is biodegradable and does not pose a threat to vegetation or aquatic life when washed away into water sources.

One of the main advantages of CMA is that it has a lower freezing point than rock salt, so it can be effective at lower temperatures. It also works by forming a barrier on the pavement that prevents ice from forming, rather than melting existing ice like traditional de-icers.

CMA is generally considered to be safe for use around pets and wildlife, making it a popular choice for environmentally-conscious municipalities and businesses. However, it can be slightly more expensive than traditional de-icing agents, which can be a drawback for some users.