During the study in which experimental test sections of Vermont interstates were treated with salt brine and salt brine mixtures, the agency found that it saved an average of 24 percent of material usage.

“Although the data sets were not as extensive as the research team initially thought, the research project was able to produce salt savings of approximately 30 percent and materials cost savings of approximately 30 percent and materials cost savings of approximately 24 percent during the first year of experimentation,” according to the Vermont DOT report. “If such a cost savings could be projected statewide, the potential savings would be almost $1 million annually.”

The research team agreed that there is potential for more salt and cost savings as staff becomes more experienced with the technology.

“Through the use of salt brine, brine blends and brine technology, the research project was able to produce safer, better winter roads at [a] lower cost, [and use] less salt and less sand,” the agency says in the report.