Kerosene road heating is a method used to melt snow and ice on paved surfaces by embedding heat-exchange elements beneath the road. Kerosene is burned in a generator to produce hot air or water, which is circulated through pipes or cables installed in the roadbed. This heat melts accumulated ice and prevents frost from forming, ensuring safer travel during winter. The system is typically activated during prolonged cold spells and requires regular maintenance to ensure efficiency and safety.

The primary advantage of kerosene road heating lies in its reliability in extreme cold, where electric or solar-based systems may struggle. A 2018 study by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) found that kerosene heating reduces road closure incidents by 40% in regions with temperatures below -20°F (-28°C) compared to traditional salt-based methods. Additionally, kerosene’s high energy density allows for extended operational hours per fuel load, a critical factor in areas with frequent snowfall. However, environmental concerns limit its adoption. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) notes that kerosene combustion emits 1.2 kg of CO2 per liter, alongside particulate matter, though this is offset by reduced salt usage—salt causes 9% of highway corrosion in the U.S. annually, costing $23 billion in maintenance. Despite these trade-offs, kerosene systems remain viable in isolated or high-traffic corridors where safety outweighs ecological costs. A 2021 report by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) highlighted successful implementations in Alaska and Minnesota, where kerosene heating cut de-icing expenses by 30% over five years. Challenges persist, including fuel storage risks and regulatory restrictions, but advancements in closed-loop systems are mitigating these issues. Overall, kerosene road heating serves as a cost-effective, though imperfect, solution for winter infrastructure maintenance in specific climates.