The visibility of dry road markings in headlight illumination is greatly reduced during the winter. This is a serious problem, as it is during this season that their contribution to night-time traffic safety is important. Earlier studies have shown that the visibility of wet road markings is poor, due to the deterioration of the reflective properties of the micro beads. In the early 80's it was noticed that during the winter also dry road markings had poor visibility. The aim of this study was to investigate this deterioration in visibility, analyse the cause and suggest measures that would increase effectiveness. The specific luminance of dry thermoplastic road markings has their use, or by introducing continuous edge lines. The latter alternative would mean less traffic on the line, which would lead to less wear and better night-time visibility of the markings. The influence of the climate can only be handled by using a compound that is not too hard in the winter and not too soft in the summer. (A)
Abstract