Thermoplastic paint is a durable, long-lasting material used for road markings that is applied as a heated liquid and hardens into a solid upon cooling. It is made from a mixture of binders, pigments, fillers, and glass beads, which make the lines reflective and resistant to wear and tear from vehicles and weather. This type of paint is a popular choice for highways, car parks, and other high-traffic areas because of its visibility and durability.
Key characteristics and components
- Heating and cooling process: The powder-based material is heated between 180c – 220c until it becomes a liquid, then applied to the surface, where it cools and hardens quickly.
- Composition: It is a compound of hydrocarbon or biogenic binders, pigments, fillers, aggregate, and glass beads.
- Glass beads: These are crucial for reflectivity, as they are embedded in the paint while hot and act as retroreflectors, making the lines visible at night when headlights hit them.
- Durability: Thermoplastic markings are highly resistant to abrasion and are a long-lasting alternative to traditional paint, which may need repainting every 6 to 12 months.
- Application: While often applied by specialized machines, it is also available in pre-cut shapes or tape for convenience.
Common uses
- Roads and highways
- Car parks
- Airports
- Logistics parks
