Download Comparative Analysis of NTPEP Pavement Marking Performance Evaluation Results Book in PDF, Epub and Kindle
"Pavement markings are used on roadways to provide guidance and information to drivers and pedestrians. They include longitudinal markings (centerlines, lane lines, and edge lines), transverse markings (stop lines, yield lines, and crosswalk markings), and special markings (arrows, words, symbol markings, red or blue raised pavement markers, cross-hatching, dotted lines, reversible lane markings, two-way left turn lane markings, speed hump markings, and parking space markings). They come in different configurations and designs, making it possible for drivers and pedestrians to instantly recognize the meanings of the markings and quickly react to them so that they can travel safely and efficiently along the roadway. A wide range of marking materials are available, including traffic paints (solvent-base and water-base), polyester, thermoplastic, epoxy, modified urethane, polyurea, methyl methacrylate, preformed thermoplastic, and preformed tape. These materials vary in cost, effectiveness in providing a contrast in color from that of the underlying surface, visibility under adverse weather conditions such as rain and fog, adherence to different pavement surfaces, and durability under different traffic and environmental conditions. This research presents a comparative and statistical analysis study of pavement marking materials from the National Transportation Product Evaluation Program (NTPEP). The performance of seven types of pavement markings (thermoplastic, preformed thermoplastic, epoxy, polyurea, modified urethane, durable tapes, and methyl methacrylate) was compared based on retroreflectivity, durability, and color. These materials were selected from four different NTPEP test decks (Mississippi, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Utah). The performance evaluation results were compared to preselected milestone performance criteria. In addition, their service life was predicted using four mathematical models (exponential, linear, power and natural logarithmic model). Pavement marking service life is defined as the time required for retroreflectivity to drop to a threshold value of 150 mcd/m2/lux for yellow markings. The outcome of this study can assist state highway agencies in selecting appropriate marking materials for different needs."--Abstract.