TRACTION
MATERIAL 		SCHUNDLER

ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE
LIGHTWEIGHT
EASY-TO-USE 		PRODUCT GUIDE
The Schundler Company
10 Central Street
Nahant, MA 01908
732-287-2244 www.schundler.com


SCHUNDLER'S ANTI-SKID
THE ENVIRONMENTALLY SAFE TRACTION MATERIAL

By Bruce Schundler

WHAT IS PERLITE?

Perlite is not a trade name but a generic term for naturally occurring siliceous volcanic rock. The distinguishing feature which sets perlite apart from other volcanic glasses is that when heated to a suitable point in its softening range, it expands from four to twenty times its original volume.

This expansion process is due to the presence of two to six percent combined water in the crude perlite rock. When quickly heated to above 1600 F (870 C) the crude rock pops in a manner similar to popcorn as the combined water vaporizes and creates countless tiny bubbles in the softened glassy particles. It is these tiny glass-sealed bubbles which account for the amazing lightweight and other exceptional physical properties of expanded perlite.

The expansion process also creates one of perlite's most distinguishing characteristics: its white color. While the crude perlite rock may range from transparent to light gray to glossy black, the color of expanded perlite ranges from snowy white to grayish white.

Expanded perlite can be manufactured to weigh from 2 lbs/ft3 (32 kg/m3) to 15 lb/ft3 (240 kg/m3) making it adaptable for numerous uses, including filtration, horticultural applications, insulation, inert carriers and a multitude of filler applications.


PERLITE FOR TRACTION

For many years truck drivers at The Schundler Company found they could use perlite for traction whenever they found themselves stuck in snow or ice. The perlite didn't melt the snow or ice, but it did provide as much or more traction than sand, and was a lot easier to use. Instead of weighing over 60-70 lbs./cubic foot, perlite weighs from 4-7 lbs./cubic foot. And unlike sand, perlite seems to "soak" up water and "slush" and dries up the "slick" surfaces quickly and easily.

As a result, several years ago The Schundler Company began packaging ANTI-SKID. The bags are designed to be easy to use, and easy to store in your home or in your car.


DIRECTIONS FOR USING ANTI-SKID

  • For Home Use
    • Use ANTI-SKID for icy spots around your home (walks,steps, driveways, etc). After spreading a thin layer on these surfaces, step on it and press it into the ice to keep it in place (Perlite is so light that a strong wind can and will blow it away.) ANTI-SKID can be used in conjuction with salt or chemical ice melting products. When used alone, ANTI-SKID will not harm your shrubs, lawn or walks, nor will it harm your carpets or the paws of your cats or dogs.

  • For Cars and Trucks
    • Spread a thin layer of ANTI-SKID on and around your tires when you get stuck in ice or snow. Then gently accelerate off the ice. When stuck in deep snow, clear snow away from your tires first before spreading ANTI-SKID. Lightweight ANTI-SKID is salt-free and it will not harm your car or driveway.

Currently Schundler ANTI-SKID is available in only a few stores or markets. If you can't find any near you or available in your local hardware or department store, why not purchase some regular horticultural or construction grade of perlite and try it. We think you will like it and want to keep some on hand for years to come. (And if the winter isn't a bad one, you can use the perlite in your garden in the spring!)

If you need any more information or think we can help in any way, please call us or contact us at:

The Schundler Company
10 Central Street
Nahant, MA 01908
(ph)732-287-2244 (fax) 732-287-4185
www.schundler.com
email: info@schundler.com


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