This paper describes the developments taking place in the thermoplastics category of pavement marking material. Profiled thermoplastic lines have a durable raised rib pattern which offers superior retroreflective visibility in wet weather and also a warning tyre vibration. Another formulation uses larger glass beads to improve dry and wet night visibility. Other formulations hold glass beads in the most effective position. Thinner materials are being designed to compete more closely on initial cost with paint. These less durable materials are nevertheless more durable then paint and useful where, for environmental reasons, paint must be eliminated. The problem of lead and chromium in yellow materials has been overcome with the use of environmentally safe pigments. Performed thermoplastic symbols are now available for fusing to the road surface. Brief details are given of the advantages of and uses for each product.
Abstract