Development and Service Performance of Active Anti-Icing Pavement Materials for Energy Efficiency Optimization of Low-Enthalpy Geothermal Deicing Systems

To address high thermal loads and energy costs in Geothermal Road Snow-Melting Systems (GRSSs) within cold regions, this study optimizes energy efficiency through material-level intervention. We developed a composite anti-icing modifier synergistic with low enthalpy geothermal systems, comprising slow-release agents, anti-corrosive components, reinforcing materials, and active chloride salts. By regulating the thermodynamic boundary of the pavement, the freezing point is suppressed to −21 °C. This eliminates the requirement for positive pavement temperatures, significantly reducing the design thermal power. Chloride ion release patterns were analyzed via dissolution and 20-day soaking tests to evaluate structural durability. Results show optimal performance at a 5% modifier dosage and 5.3% bitumen aggregate ratio. Ion release follows a third-order polynomial law and remains stable at 35 °C, ensuring reliability during seasonal thermal cycles. Validation in Xinjiang showed a variation of only 1.5% over 20 days. This research offers an innovative material energy synergy for cascaded geothermal utilization and infrastructure decarbonization in cold regions.