The Place for Abrasives in Winter Road Maintenance:

Abrasives can increase traction, but on their own they won’t melt snow and ice, nor break dangerous ice-bonding from the pavement.  If not mixed with deicing material, abrasives must be applied heavily and frequently.  This can produce environmental concerns, including air pollution, harmful streambed sedimentation, and unsightly buildup on roadways.  Nonetheless, aggregates are sometimes very important for vehicle safety, such as on hills, steep curves and unpaved roads.