7 Fun Facts About Rock Salt

Rock Salt or sodium chloride or NaCl, is one of the most commonly used ice melting ingredients in cold and chilly regions. It is extracted from the core of the sea bed and underground rock formations by residential and commercial establishments alike. 

While we know it is not a concrete-safe ice melt, let us take a quick look at the seven fun facts about sodium chloride or rock salt. 

1. Another name for rock salt is ‘halite’ which is the Greek word for salt. The chemical name is sodium chloride. It is different from regular table salt because it is purified and contains the necessary iodine content. 

2. Evaporated sea beds and lake beds are the best places to extract rock salt. However, it is also mined from underground beds or salt mines in heavy quantities throughout the year. Interestingly, Utah has one of the oldest salt mines in the country dating back to the 1950s, holding salt dating back to 150 million years. 

3. One of the largest salt mines in the world is the Sifto salt mines in Goderich, Ontario, Canada that produces nearly 26,000 tonnes of salt per day. It runs deep under Lake Huron and goes on for almost 7 to 8 kms. 

4. It can appear to have different colors depending on the isotropic differences. The most commonly found color is the Himalayan Salt that is pink in color.

5. Besides being used in road safety, it is also consumed as edible salt after purification. 

6. It has anti-caking properties, making it suitable for long-term storage or use straight away, even in sub-zero temperatures. 

7. Rock salt with anti-caking properties is popularly used by retail stores, offices, and large commercial establishments with a heavy footfall. The area covered with this salt tends to be cleaner and does not become a brine or slush mess. However, while it is used in heavy quantities, it is not the best ice melt safe for concrete. 

You can use rock salt as a single product or as a blend. However, it provides temporary relief and is not a concrete-safe ice melt.

Does Safe Paw contain any rock salt? 

Safe Paw is one of the safest ice melt for concrete today. Safe Paw comprises a unique balance of patented dual-effect compounds. It is chloride-free, salt-free, acetate-free, and 100% safe for the environment.

Let’s talk about some more fun facts anduses of salt:

Rock Salt Cooking

Did you know that rock salt cooking is a fantastic way to infuse flavor while maintaining the moisture of your food? It’s perfect for creating a crust on large cuts of meat or whole fish. The high mineral content can also add a subtle zest, enhancing your culinary creations.

Rock Salt Aquarium

For aquarium enthusiasts, rock salt aquarium treatments can be a lifesaver. Adding the right amount of rock salt can help to treat fish ailments, such as ich or nitrite poisoning, creating a healthier environment for your aquatic friends.

Rock Salt Health

Talking about rock salt health benefits, it’s not just about taste; it’s also packed with minerals! Unlike refined table salt, rock salt can include magnesium, potassium, and calcium, which contribute to better hydration and may help in maintaining a healthy electrolyte balance.

Concrete and Rock Salt

Moving onto concrete care—while rock salt is known for its deicing capabilities, it’s crucial to discuss its effects on concrete surfaces. Rock salt can accelerate deterioration due to the freeze/thaw cycle, leading to potential concrete damage.

Uses of Rock Salt

Beyond these, the uses of rock salt extend into environmental control, where it helps manage ice on roads, ensuring safety during the winter months. Its gritty texture also provides necessary traction.

Rock Salt Benefits

One of the main rock salt benefits is its cost-effectiveness and availability. It’s a go-to choice for bulk deicing needs across colder regions.

Rock Salt vs. Crystal Salt and Table Salt

When comparing rock salt vs. crystal salt and rock salt vs. table salt, the distinctions come down to purity and mineral content. Crystal salt, often seen in the form of larger, more aesthetic crystals, is typically purer. In contrast, table salt is more refined, usually with added iodine, making it a common household staple.

Environmentally Friendly Ice Melt

So, the next time you pick up a bag of rock salt, remember its diverse applications—from your kitchen to your aquarium, and even your driveway. But remember, if you’re looking for a concrete-safe ice melt, explore alternatives like Safe Paw, which provides effective deicing without the damage.

Bulk Purchase With Safe Paw

Conclusion 

Rock salt does more harm than good to the environment. However, like every change, shifting from rock salt is not easy. The fun facts give us a sneak-peek into the different ways to mine salt or extract salt from the deepest parts of the seabed or dried river beds. Since Safe Paw is non-corrosive and non-conductive, it does not harm your pets or concrete. It will melt ice almost without worrying about property damage and is an ice melt safe for concrete too. 

Gaia Enterprises Inc. delivers 100% pet-safe and environmentally friendly winter products. Safe Paw, our flagship product, is the #1 selling pet-safe ice melt that does not harm pets, safe if ingested, and safe on all types of concrete.

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