Combining subsurface heating with solar energy to eliminate snow and ice formation on pavement, PaveGuard Technologies will equip two bridges in Missouri in the Excelsior Springs area with a series of pipes underneath the pavement powered by photovoltaic solar panels. Since the bridge won’t always require this solar power, it can be sold to the area’s power grid. The Missouri Department of Transportation has just recently assigned PaveGuard a $200,000 contract.
The solar energy heats up the liquid and never allows the liquid to dip below 38 degrees. The antifreeze liquid starts flowing and thus rejects any freezing on the bridge’s surface. The move will go on to promote safe driving and will prevent bridges from their annual subjection to wear and tear.
Image Credit: Pixdaus
Via: Examiner