News & Events

The European Commission appreciates the Polish innovative salt absorption system ODSALAX

Winter de-icing of roads and pavements is associated with the introduction of large amounts of sodium chloride into the environment, which is harmful to soil, groundwater and plant growth. Innovative mats invented by Polish research company ALCOR from Opole, with the participation of the W. Szafer Institute of Botany of the Polish Academy of Sciences, absorb a significant amount of phytotoxic salt, protecting urban greenery. The ODSALAX system consists of a biodegradable, natural absorber made of appropriately prepared basket willow (Salix viminalis L.) chips and protective trays laid out in winter, for example around trees. The system uses willow's natural ability to absorb brine and retain salt, which has been documented in urban conditions. Recently, information about the system has been presented on the website of the European Commission.

See also the Polish research company ALCOR website.

ODSALAX on the streets of Oslo.
Photo: Jarosław Kozak.

ODSALAX on the streets of Oslo.
Photo: Jarosław Kozak.

ODSALAX system tray with visible willow chips.
Photo: Jarosław Kozak.