Review of Implications of Road Salt Use on Groundwater Quality-Corrosivity and Mobilization of Heavy Metals and Radionuclides

The negative impacts of road salt (primarily NaCl) on freshwater ecosystems and ground and surface waters used for drinking purposes have been extensively documented. Besides direct increases in chloride (Cl-) and sodium (Na+) concentrations in receiving waters, these ions are responsible for a myriad of soil chemical changes and processes resulting in increased corrosivity of water and subsequent leaching of lead (Pb) and copper (Cu); mobilization of heavy metals in soils to ground and surface water including cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), Cu, Pb, nickel (Ni), manganese (Mn), and zinc (Zn); and radionuclide mobilization presenting increased risks to drinking water quality. This article summarizes literature describing the mechanisms and the implications of road salt on water corrosivity and mobilization of both metals and radionuclides on groundwater resources and public health.