MMA vs. Thermoplastic

Schools and colleges have been looking for a long-term solution to pavement markings. MMA pavement marking is the most durable color marking material available. It has been used in the U.S. and around the world for decades as line striping. MMA (methyl methacrylate) is now getting a lot of attention as color pavement marking and is becoming increasingly common for bike lanes, bus lanes, crosswalks, pedestrian areas and other markings.

Unlike thermoplastic, MMA does not require special equipment for installation, it is less expensive and can last 5 to 10 years or more depending on the vehicular usage and markings do not need to be redone every season. This makes it an ideal material for campuses that can use their own personnel to apply it. MMA bonds to both asphalt and concrete surfaces; concrete is a challenge for other marking materials.

Known for high durability, increased wet-night visibility, skid resistance and optimal color stability, MMA-based area markings are commonly being used to apply bright red crosswalks. The contrasting colors of these crosswalks alert drivers and can significantly reduce the number of pedestrian injuries. MMA green bike lanes serve as a continuous reminder to drivers of the possibility of the presence of bicyclists. Wayfinding and unique designs are also great uses for this durable material that can be made in custom colors.

Pavement markings are primarily a safety feature and can only be effective if they are visible. MMA is UV stable, so the colors stay brighter longer than thermoplastic, and it bonds to itself so it can be refreshed without full removal. MMA can also be applied in temperatures ranging from 40-100°F, extending the marking season.

This article originally appeared in the issue of .

About the Author

Karen Dinitz is with Color-Safe/Transpo Industries, Inc. She can be contacted at [email protected] and 800/321-7870.

Featured

  • Howard Community College President Joins National Research Council

    Howard Community College President Daria J. Willis was recently appointed to the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) Commission on Research and Community College Trends and Issues, according to a news release.

  • Three U.S. Universities Install Acre Security Access Control Platform

    Cloud-native physical and digital security solutions company Acre Security recently announced that it has deployed its access control platform at three major universities in the U.S., according to a news release. Acre partnered with Atrium Campus to provide coverage for more than 69,000 students at the University of Virginia (UVA), George Mason University, and Rockhurst University.

  • Midland ISD Starts Construction on Two New High Schools

    The Midland Independent School District recently announced that it will break ground on two new high schools in Midland, Texas, according to a news release. The district is partnering with Pfluger Architects, Lee Lewis Construction, and Satterfield & Pontikes to create a total of over 1.5 million square feet for 8,400 students in grades 9–12.

  • Average Annual Number of Tornadoes per State

    New Tornado Wind Load Design Criteria in IBC Offer Improvements to Life Safety

    For the first time in U.S. building code history, the 2024 International Building Code (IBC) includes tornado wind load design criteria, marking a significant advancement in life-safety provisions.

Digital Edition