Building on this breakthrough, the scientists combined the acetate-based salt with various compounds including a surfactant, silicon dioxide, sodium bicarbonate, and blast furnace slag.

Road salt is the traditional way to de-ice roads, driveways, and sidewalks, but there are alternatives out there that are better in specific scenarios.

East Lyme is warning residents who are on low-sodium diets after road salt caused sodium levels in water to jump.

Once dissolved, the salt compound breaks down into its elements — sodium and chloride — which, in sufficient amounts, are poisonous to aquatic life and the mammals who feed on them.

Road salt is the traditional way to de-ice roads, driveways, and sidewalks, but there are alternatives out there that are better in specific scenarios.