Rock Salt

There are two common types of rock salt that are described below.   These rock salts are used to melt snow and ice in the winter. They are also commonly used in water softeners.  Both types of rock salt are considered hazardous and are acceptable materials at the Household Hazardous Waste Disposal Facility in Mount Olive Township or at one of the MCMUA household hazardous waste disposal days.

1. Sodium Chloride – a/k/a Halite; is non-hazardous but will react with strong acids to generate HCl and strong oxiding agents to generate Cl₂.
    
2. Calcium Chloride – This material is Dangerous When Wet.  Therefore contact with water generates heat. In the presence of moisture, the material is corrosive to aluminum, zinc and tin, producing highly flammable hydrogen gas.  Keep away from acids; gives off heat