Abstract: According to the invention, a melting composition based on alkali chloride and water is spread on the traffic surface, the melting composition being a mixture containing a small proportion of an additive which increases the thixotropic properties of the mixture without substantially modifying its melting properties. The additive is, for example, hydrophilic pyrogenated colloidal silica, or a hydrated aluminum and/or magnesium silicate, in powder form, of the bentonite or montmorillonite type. The viscosity of the melting composition is thereby increased and simultaneously the speed of evacuation is decreased. The process finds application in the maintenance of pavements during winter.