BASF manufactures formic acid from which salts known as formates are derived. Salts of formic acid are now being used successfully in the Nordic countries, Switzerland and Austria to remove slippery ice from roads, sidewalks and bikeways. Compared to conventional gritting materials, these liquid de-icing agents act more efficiently and in a more environmentally acceptable manner. They are particularly suitable for removing thin coats of ice and can also be used as a preventive measure when weather forecasts predict snowfall and icy conditions. Moreover, they support swift and continuous de-icing and allow ice and snow to be easily removed by mechanical means. These de-icing agents are less corrosive, yet highly effective even when used very sparingly.