Skip to main content
Add as a preferred source on Google

MMA vs. Thermoplastic

  • By Karen Dinitz
  • 06/01/17

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 and yet it is not widely known. It has been used in the United States and around the world for decades as line striping. MMA (Methyl Methacrylate) is now getting a lot of attention as color pavement marking 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 five to 10 years or more depending on the vehicular usage. This makes it an ideal material for education facilities that can use their own personnel to apply it, and markings do not need to be redone every season. MMA also bonds to both asphalt and concrete surfaces. Concrete is a challenge for other marking materials.

Known for high durability, increased wetnight 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 as they merge or change lanes. 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 to100 degrees F, extending the marking season in many regions.

MMA’s bright color and ability to customize color has made it the go to material for schools and college campuses where durability, aesthetics as well safety are part of campus maintenance priorities.

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

  • abstract representation of hybrid learning environment

    The Permanence of Change: Why Hybrid Is the New Baseline

    Hybrid learning is here to stay, and it's reshaping how campus spaces function.

  • LSU Breaks Ground on $200M Residential Project

    Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge, La., recently broke ground on a new residential complex, according to university news. The South Quad residential project will consist of two buildings and add a total of 1,266 beds for freshmen students. The development comes with a price tag of $200 million, and it’s scheduled to open to students in fall 2027.

  • UCNJ Launches $30M Modernization of Physical Education Center

    The Union College of Union County (UCNJ) in Cranford, N.J., recently broke ground on a new $30-million modernization project for its Physical Education Center (PECK), according to a news release. The college partnered with DIGroup Architecture for the project’s design, transitioning the existing 42,000-square-foot structure into a campus hub for student athletics and campus life.

  • textured paper collage shows a school building on fire as a fire truck sprays water into the flames

    Why a Fire Loss Is More than Flames

    We've all seen what fire damage can do to a property, but the types of damage building owners often encounter after a fire loss can exceed expectations. Having full awareness of the different forms of damage properties can sustain helps owners respond faster, reduce continued damage, and get back on the road to recovery in short order.

Digital Edition