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. 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

  • UT System Approves First Funds for New Campus

    The University of Texas System Board of Regents recently approved funds to build the first facility of a new campus in far west Fort Worth, Texas, according to university news. UTA West will serve as a branch of the University of Texas at Arlington and is scheduled to open in fall 2028.

  • Chartwells Launches Campus Dining Evaluation Framework

    Contract food-service management provider Chartwells Higher Education recently announced the launch of BLUEPRINT, according to a news release. The evaluation framework was designed to provide a data-driven and customizable roadmap towards optimizing campus dining services and, by extension, the student experience.

  • Girl Sitting at Library Desk, Using Laptop

    How Campus Design Shapes the Finals Week Experience

    Academic performance is not just about preparation. It is closely tied to how students manage stress, maintain their energy, and shift between work and recovery modes. Much of that is influenced, directly or indirectly, by design.

  • Chicago District Completes Construction on New Elementary School

    North Chicago School District 187 in North Chicago, Ill., recently held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new Forrestal Elementary School, according to a news release. The new school marks a major investment in military-connected students and families at Naval Station Great Lakes.